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nor does he tread a wrong path. A wise man intuitively finds solutions to his
problems. Those who lack this clear-sightedness find themselves always
facing problems and ever living from crisis it crises. The worship of Gayatri
mantra bestows the boon of righteous wisdom. The teachings of and the
powers incorporated in Gayatri mantra fulfil this purpose. Righteous wisdom
starts emerging as soon as Jap of this mantra is taken up as a Sadhana.

AUM BHOOR BHUWAH SWAHA,

TAT SAVITUR VARENYAM
BHARGO DEVASAYA DHEEMAHI
DHIYO YO NAHA PRACHODAYAT.
Summary of the Gayatri Mantra
Gayatri Mantra (the mother of the vedas), the foremost mantra in Hinduism and
Hindu beliefs, inspires wisdom. Its meaning is that "May the Almighty God
illuminate our intellect to lead us along the righteous path". The mantra is also a
prayer to the "giver of light and life" - the sun (savitur).
Oh God! Thou art the Giver of Life,
Remover of pain and sorrow,
The Bestower of happiness,
Oh! Creator of the Universe,
May we receive thy supreme sin-destroying light,
May Thou guide our intellect in the right direction.
Gayatri, the five-faced Goddess, is said to have domain over the five senses or
pranas, and protects these five life-forces of those who chant the Gayatri
Mantra. In her role as the protector, Gayatri is referred to as Savitri.
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Word for Word Meaning of the Gayatri Mantra

Aum = Brahma
Bhoor = embodiment of vital spiritual energy(pran)
Bhuwah = destroyer of sufferings
Swaha = embodiment of happiness
Tat = that
Savitur = bright like sun
Varenyam = best choicest
Bhargo = destroyer of sins
Devasya = divine

These first nine words describe the glory of God

Dheemahi = may imbibe; pertains to meditation
Dhiyo = intellect
Yo = who
Naha = our
Prachodayat = may inspire!
"Dhiyo yo Na prachodayat" is a prayer to God
Hence the Gayatri is unique in that it embodies the three concepts of stotra
(singing the praise and glory of God), dhyaana (meditation) and praarthana
(prayer).
The prayer form of the Gayatri be used to pray to Lord Shiva is called Rudra
Gayatri. Similarly, one may sing Ganesha Gayatri for Lord Ganesha, Hanuman
Gayatri for Lord Hanuman, and Saraswati Gayatri for Goddess Saraswati.
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Origin, Benefits and Chanting of the Gayatri Mantra

The Vedas are widely considered to be the source of all true knowledge, the
word "Veda" itself meaning "Knowledge". Gayatri Devi also gave to mankind
the "Gayatri Mantra", also known as the "Guru Mantra" or the "Savitri Mantra".
It is one of the oldest mantras, and generally thought of as being amongst the
highest and most powerful mantras of all. This mantra is therefore often
referred to as "the Mother of the Vedas". In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna
had proclaimed to Arjuna - "Among all the mantras, I am the Gayatri".
Rishis selected the words of the Gayatri Mantra and arranged them so that they
not only convey meaning but also create specific power of righteous wisdom
through their utterance. The ideal times for chanting the mantra are three times
a day - at dawn, mid-day, and at dusk. These times are known as the three
sandhyas - morning, mid-day and evening. The maximum benefit of chanting
the mantra is said to be obtained by chanting it 108 times. However, one may
chant it for 3, 9, or 18 times when pressed for time. The syllables of the mantra
are said to positively affect all the chakras or energy centres in the human body
- hence, proper pronunciation and enunciation are very important.
Chanting of Gayatri Mantra removes all obstacles in our path to increased
wisdom and spiritual growth and development. The teachings and powers
incorporated in the Gayatri Mantra fulfill this purpose. Righteous wisdom starts
emerging soon after Jap(recitation) of the Gayatri Mantra is performed. Sri
Swamy Rama Krishna teaches that the Gayatri Mantra "will protect you from
harm wherever you are, make your intellect shine, improve your power of
speech, and dispel the darkness
of ignorance (Dhiyoyonah prachodayaath)".

References to the Gayatri Mantra in Scriptures

The Upanisads (secret texts) of Hinduism contain several references to the
Gayatri Mantra.
Chandogya Upanisad 3.12.1,2,5 (Qualities of Gayatri)
1. This entire creation is Gayatri. And the Gayatri is speech - for speech sings
(gayati) and protects (trayati) this entire creation. Gayatri indeed is all this,
whatever being exists. Speech indeed is Gayatri; for speech indeed sings and
removes fear of all this that exists.
2. That which is this Gayatri, even that is this earth; for on this earth are all the
beings established and they do not transcend it.
5. This well-known Gayatri is four-footed and sixfold.
Chandogya Upanisad 4.17.1-6 (Origin of Bhur Bhuvah Svah)
1. Prajapati (the progenitor of the worlds) brooded on the three worlds. From
them he extracted their essences; fire from the earth, air from the sky and the
sun from heaven.
2. He further brooded on these three deities. From them he extracted their
essences: the Riks (Rg-veda) from fire, the Yajus-mantras (Yajur-veda) from
air, and the Saman (Sama-veda) from the sun.
3. He brooded on the three Vedas. From them he extracted their existences;
Bhuh from the Riks, Bhuvah from the Yajus-mantras and Svah from the
Samans.
4-6. Therefore if the sacrifice is rendered defective on account of the Riks (or
Yajus or Samans), then with the Mantra Bhuh Svaha (or 'Bhuvah Svaha' or
'Svah Svaha'), the Brahman priest should offer an oblation in the fire. Thus
verily, through the essence of the Riks (or Yajus or Samans), through the

virility of the Riks (or Yajus or Samans), he makes good the injury of the
sacrifice in respect of the Riks (or Yajus or Samans).
Brahadaranyaka Upanisad 5.14.4 (Gayatri as the Protector)
The Gayatri Mantra is based on truth. For truth is based on strength. Strength is
breath, and is based on breath. So, Gayatri protects (tra) the wealth (gaya) (the
breath!) of those who speak it with earnestness and devotion. When one recites
Gayatri on behalf of someone, it protects that person's breath too!
Brahadaranyaka Upanisad 5.14.5 (Four 'foots' of the Gayatri)
This verse talks about the unbounded wealth contained within the four 'foots' of
the Gayatri Mantra.
The first foot (Aum bhur bhuvah svaha) is said to be equivalent to the wealth
contained in the three worlds put together.
The second foot (tat savitur varenyam) is said to be equivalent to the wealth
contained in the three main vedas.
If one were to receive a gift extending as far as there are living beings, that
would equal the third foot (bhargo devasaya dheemahi).
The fourth foot (dheeyo yo nah prachodyaat) is based on the glory of the sun,
whose power and wealth remains unequaled and unrivaled. Hence, there is no
amount of wealth that can equal the fourth foot of the Gayatri!

Gayatri Mantra - Long Form and Praanayama

The complete form (or long form) of the Gayatri Mantra contains an invocation
to the seven spheres, followed by the traditional 24-syllable mantra that is most
commonly chanted. The final part of the mantra is an invocation to the Goddess
of light to illuminate our path as we move towards higher consciousness.
AUM bhUH, AUM bhuvaH, AUM svaH, AUM mahaH
AUM janaH, AUM tapaH, AUM satyam
AUM tatsaviturvarenyM bhargo devasya dhImahi
dhIyo yo nH prachodayAt.h.
AUM Apo jyotiH rasomRRitaM
brahma bhUR bhuvaH svar AUM..
AUM, the primordial sound, resides in all elements of the universe. It permeates
the earth (-bhUH), water (-bhuvaH), fire (-svaH), air (-mahaH), ether (-janaH),
intelligence (-tapaH) and consciousness (-satyam). We pay homage to Gayatri,
the one who shines like the sun (tat savitur), the one who destroys all our sins
through her everlasting and effulgent light. Dear Goddess Gayatri, please
illuminate our path towards our higher consciousness and lead us to our true
purpose in life. Please shine your light (-jyotiH) in our path so we may partake
of the everlasting nectar (rasomRRitaM) of Brahman while chanting the primo
Gayatri Mantra - Mantra or Prayer?
The Gayatri Mantra occupies a unique place in that it has both the power of
mantra and of prarthana (prayer). It is important then in considering the Gayatri
Mantra to distinguish the difference between these two deceptively similar
words.
A mantra may be articulate or inarticulate, or a combination of them, as with
AUM. It has an inherent power, known as "Mantra shakti", which has a positive
influence not due to any philosophical meaning behind the mantra, but simply
due to its utterance alone.
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A prayer on the other hand does have a philosophical meaning behind it, and it
is generally through this meaning that the prayer or prarthana has its power.
Since this meaning can be easily understood, the method of prarthana is
generally the form of worship used by most people.
The Gayatri, or Guru Mantra possesses both the power of mantra and the
power of prarthana, and thus has both an intrinsic power (ie "mantra
Shakti"), through its mere utterance alone, and also an instrumental power
(ie "prarthana Shakti"), which is derived from the understanding of its
meaning and philosophical significance. Hence, the repeated and correct
chanting of the Gayatri Mantra, with proper understanding of its meaning, is
believed to be of the greatest good to the individual.

RISHIS OPINION ABOUT GAYATRI MANTRA

Several concepts are prevalent in the Hindu religion and there are
controversies and conflicting opinions also in respect of some of them. But
all the sects, saints and rishis have accepted the pre-eminence of Gayatri
mantra with one voice.

According to Vishwamitra, there is no other mantra like Gayatri mantra

in all the four Vedas. All the Vedas, Yagna, charity, tap (devout usterity)
are not equivalent even to a small portion of potency of Gayatri mantra.
According to Parashar, of all suktas and Ved Mantras, Gayatri Mantra is
the superiormost. Between the Vedas and Gayatri, the latter has an upper
hand. One who performs Gayatri Jap with devotion becomes pure and
gets liberated. A person without Gayatri worship cannot be considered a
Brahman, although, he might have read Vedas, Shastras, Purans and
history.
Shankha Rishi is of the view that Gayatri alone extends a helping hand
and saves a person from falling in the ocean of hell. There is nothing
superior to it on this earth as well as in the heavens. Undoubtedly, a
person who masters Gayatri attains heaven (swarga).
According to Shounak rishi a dwij may or may not do other worships.
He gets liberated by doing Gayatri Jap alone and attains all material and
spiritual boons. Performance of ten thousand japs averts calamity in the
hour of crisis.
Attri muni says Gayatri completely purifies the soul. By the glorious
power of Gayatri deep-rooted defects and vices are cleansed out. Nothing
else remains to be attained in this world by one who fully understands the
substance of Gayatri.
Bhardwaj Rishi says that even God like Brahma performs Gayatri jap. It
leads to God realisation. A vicious man gets rid of his vices by
performing Gayatri jap. A person devoid of Gayatri Sadhana is worse
than a shudra.
A person who worships Gayatri, observes Brahmacharya and consumes
fresh fruits of Anwala tree (emblic myrobalan) attains longevity
according to Charak Rishi. According to Narad Gayatri is devotion
(bhakti ) personified. Wherever there is Gayatri in the form of devotion,
God-Narayan, undoubtedly resides there.
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Vashishtha says persons who are dull, way-ward and fickle-minded

become highly intelligent and steadfast and rise to great heights in
worldly and spiritual pursuits by Gayatri Sadhana. Those who worship
Gayatri steadfastly and piously attain self-realisation.

According to Maharshi Vyas just as honey is the essence of flower, ghrit

of milk, in the same way Gayatri is the essence of all the Vedas. Gayatri
is like Kamdhenu for one who has acquired mastery in it. Ganga purifies
sins committed by the physical body but Gayatri, the Brahma Ganga,
purifies the soul. A person resorting to systems of worship other than
Gayatri is like a fool who leaves delicious delicacies and takes to begging
for food. There is nothing superior to Gayatri Sadhana for achieving
According to Jagat Guru Shankaracharya It is beyond human competence
to describe the glory of Gayatri. Nothing is more important in the world
than to attain spiritual wisdom, which is inspired by Gayatri Sadhana.
Gayatri is the primordial mantra. Its Sadhana destroys sins and promotes
virtues.

Manu says that-Gayatri mantra having three phases was conceived by

Brahma as the essence of three Vedas. There is no more purifying
mantra than Gayatri mantra. A person doing Gayatri tap regularly for
three years realises God. A dwij (twice-born person known as Brahman)
who meditates on Gayatri mantra in the morning and evening gets the
benefit of reciting all the Vedas. Such a person can attain divine powers
(Siddhis) by Gayatri jap alone. Those who perform Jap of this mantra a
thousand times daily get rid of the ill-effect of their sins just as a snake
casts off its slough. A dwij who does not worship Gayatri deserves
severest condemnation.
Yogiraj Yagyavalkya says- Gayatri and all the Vedas were weighed in a
balance. The scale was tipped in favour of Gayatri. Upnishads are the essence
of Vedas and Gayatri along with its vyahrities, has been regarded as the essence
of Upnishads. Gayatri is the mother of Vedas, it destroys sins and there is no
other greater purifying mantra than Gayatri on this earth as well as in the
heavens. Just as there is no better place of pilgrimage than Ganga and none can
excel God, the keshav, so also there is no mantra superior to Gayatri mantra.
One who masters Gayatri becomes master of all knowledge and becomes
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shroutriya. A dwij who is not devoted to Gayatri is like a shoodra, although he

may be well-versed in the Vedas. He who does not know Gayatri gets deprived
of brahmanatva and becomes sinful.

Gayatri is Kalpavriksha
Art of Living: A devotee of Gayatri realizes the significance of life and hence
utilizes this opportunity for the refinement of self and welfare of others. He
remains free from the fear of death and remains poised in pleasure and pain.
This art of living makes him successful in every endeavor.
Conservation of energy: Dissipation of vital energy causes disease in the
body and that of spiritual energy causes disorder in the mind and unhealthy
developments in the society. Worship ofGayatri inspires a person to conserve
his energy, which automatically rectifies these disorders.
Excellence: A man of principles and idealistic values would surely be called
excellent even though he may be poor or resourceless. The generosity of heart
developed through Gayatri sadhana gives inner peace that cannot be achieved
through any other materialistic means.
Purity: External purity augments health and beauty and internal purity
wakens divinity within.Gayatri bestows both which, in turn, provide peace,
satisfaction and fame.

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Divine Vision: People with corrupted vision see evil everywhere but a
devotee of Gayatri develops a divine vision with which he sees happiness
and beauty all around in this garden of the Lord.

Virtues: Prayerful worship of Gayatri augments virtues like humility,

politeness, sweet speech, service, cooperation, honesty, regularity, habit of
working hard, conscientiousness, courage, valour, hopefulness, patience,
frugality, etc. A person with such virtues will certainly lead a happy and
healthy life.

Discernment: It is a kind of spiritual light with which it is possible to

distinguish between true and untrue, right and wrong, necessary and
unnecessary, etc. In majority of cases, the cause of sin and suffering is
ignorance, confusion or foolishness. Gayatri bestows the faculty of
discernment, which saves the devotee from all the pitfalls.
Self-control: Human body is a storehouse of wonderful powers. If these
powers are utilized in a proper direction, one can achieve great successes.
Gayatri does bless a devotee with the virtue of self-control and hence with
success.
Service: We should serve others in such a way that helps them to become
self-dependent, enthusiastic and active. Helping others to make them
progressive, making this Earth green and clean and environment pleasant is
a great service. Gayatri amply bestows this prudence of selfless service on
its devotees.

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ATTAINMENT OF DIVINE
WISDOM THROUGH GAYATRI SADHANA

Gayatri is the mantra which imparts true wisdom. It inspires the mind, intellect
inner psyche and emotions of the devotee towards the righteous path. Its adhana
helps in progressive growth of righteous (sat) elements. When the Sadhak
concentrates on the meaning of this
mantra he realises that the supreme prosperity and the greatest success in life is
to attain true wisdom. When he gets fully convinced about the true aim of life,
he single-minded starts his self-effort towards this goal. This aspiration creates
an ever expanding vibration in the universal realm which attracts and ssimilates
waves of righteous thoughts, emotions and inspirations pervading
the subtle atmos phere. The magnetic power of thoughts is well-known.
Thoughts at tract thoughts of similar kind scattered in the mental universe with
the result that powerful eternal thoughts and spiritual attainments of livingand
past illumined persons start accumulating spontaneously within the Sadhak as a
divine boon and his accumulated capital of such thoughts goes on increasing.
The effect of this influx of righteousness (satogun) in the body andmind is
amazing. This is not visible to the naked eye nor can it beunderstood from
purely physical point of view. But those who areendowed with the occult
knowledge of the working of the inner being know it well that decrease in the
elements of tam and raj and increase in sat is almost similar to the steady
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process of elimination of disease producing toxins, viruses and germs from the
body and replacing them with health-giving rejuvenating cells. True, the
process will not be instantly visible, but there can be no doubt that it will have
miraculous effects on health in due course. Rejuvenation of body is a
scientifically proved phenomenon. Whether this benefit is a divine gift or it is
due to human efforts is a matter on which opinion may differ butit is certain that
Gayatri Sadhana increases virtues in the inner psyche of the Sadhak and
simultaneously throws out the vices and impu-rities. This results in internal
transformation of the Sadhak. There is nouse in entering into the controversy
whether the advantage accrued is an individual attainment or a divine boon. No
work, whatsoever, can be accomplished without the grace of God and so it may
be said thatall that happens is due to Divine grace. Essential Rules to be bserved
By Gayatri Sadhaks
The knowledge part of Gayatri Mantra Gayatri Geeta: Gayatri Mantra contains
ocean of infinite knowledge. The message of Gayatri is most meaningful both
from spiritual as well as material point of view. The knowledge of Gayatri is
given in form of Geeta here by explaining meaning of all 24 words..
The Glory of Gayatri: Right from Brahma, the Creator of this universe, down to
the present era, all the rishis, saints, spiritual seers and seekers have
demonstrated the beneficent effects of the chanting of Gayatri mantra..
Paeans of praise for Gayatri Mantra: All the Sects, Saints and Rishis have
accepted the pre-eminence of Gayatri mantra with one voice. In this link one
can refer the statements made by rishis and put in scriptures like Veda etc about
Gayatri Mantra.
Simple and Safe Steps of Daily Gayatri-Upasana:
Gayatri-Upasana can be performed mentally at any time in any circumstance. It
is doubtlessly beneficial in every condition. Nevertheless, performing it
regularly and religiously has greater significance and spiritual impact. Any
experiment or task if conducted systematically with due concentration and
punctuality assures completion and comprehensive output. The same is true of
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devotional practices. The rituals associated with the daily upasana of Gayatri
are devised to help desired mental and emotional conditioning of the sadhaka.
Womens right to do gayatri sadhana

Women have, in general been given prominence and respect in all religious and
spiritual pursuits. If one goes through the Vedas it will appear that not only
rishis but several wives of rishis were also seers to whom Vedic hymns were
revealed. There has been considerable discussion amongst the scholars of Kashi
on the controversy whether women have a right to chant Ved-Mantras.
References are found in Vedas about several
women rishis being authors of several Ved-Mantras hence it is acceptable by
scholars that women has same right as man for Ved and therefore

Gayatri Mantra (which is base of vedas)

Women have always been accorded high respect in the Indian culture. They
have been regarded more pious than men. They are often addressed as devi.
Girls are named as Shantidevi, Gangadevi, Dayadevi. The word devi is thus
often annexed to their names. Girls are adorned not by degrees etc. but by their
inherent God-given feminine virtues. Gods and great personalities are often
known through the names of their wives. In various names like Sitaram
Radheshyam, Gaurishankar, Lakhyaminarayan, Uma-Mahesh, Maya-Brahma,
Savitri- Satyavan; women, have been given precedence over men. All
thoughtful and wise persons have regarded women more prominent in respect
of virtues like chastity, loyalty, mercy, compassion, service, sympathy, love,
16

affection, generosity, devotion etc. Women have, in general been given

prominence and respect in all religious and spiritual pursuits. If one goes
through the Vedas it will appear that not only rishis but several wives of rishis
were also seers to whom Vedic hymns were revealed. How could the great God
who is kind-hearted, just and impartial discriminate between man and woman
who are his own children? The rishi of the Mantras of RigVed
(10/85) is a female named Surya Savitri. In Nirukt, a rishi has been defined as
one who is a seer of Mantras, who understands the secret behind them and
transmits it to others ("Rishi darshanat stoman dadarshati, Rishyo Mantra
drastarah"). In twenty-fourth chapter of Vrihad Devta, a list of women rishis in
RigVed has been given which includes the names of Ghosha, Godha,
Vishvavara, Aapala, Upnishad, Juhu, Adity, Indrani, Sarama, Romasha,
Urvashi, Lopamudra, Yami, Shaswati, Surya, Savitri as being brahmavadinis.
The seers of Rigveda's sukta 10-134, 10-39,10- 40, 10-91, 10-95,10-107,10109,10-154,10-159,10-189,5-28,8- 91 etc. were women.
There is ample evidence which proves that, like males, females used to perform
Yagna. They were experts in Yagna technique and religious learning. Several
women used to guide their fathers/husbands in this respect. Ida had told Manu
that she would do avadhan on fire in such a way that he would get worldly
riches, pleasures and respect and attain heaven. In shatpath Brahman,
Yagyavalkya's wife Maitreyi has been called brahmavadini, which means
brahmavadan-sheel. Brahma means Ved and brahmavadansheel means one who
gives discourses on Vedas. Adi-Shankaracharya had to enter into a spiritual
debate with Bharati Devi. Her exposition of the scriptures was so marvellous
that even eminent scholars were wonder-struck. Shankaracharya was unable to
answer her profound questions and had to seek one month's time to respond. In
Shankar Digvijaya (3/16) it is written that Bharati Devi was well-versed in all
the Vedas and other scriptures and branches of Knowledge. None excelled her
in knowledge. How can a ban now be imposed on study of the scriptures by
women? If there had been such a restriction in the ancient times, how could
there have been women who could have philosophical debates with persons like
Yagyavalkya, Shankaracharya etc. In fact, in those days all men and women
had equal opportunities for studying the Vedas. In Shatpath (1/9/2/2/1 and
1/9/2/22, 23) there are directions for women about pronouncing Mantras 23/23,
17

25, 27, 29 of Yajurved. Same is the case with Mantras 1/1/10 of Tettriya
Samhita. Ashvalayan Grahya Sutra 1/1/9 provides that in the absence of
yajman, his wife, son or unmarried daughter could perform Yagna. Kathak
Grahy Sutra (3/1/ 30 and 26/3) and Logakshi Grahya Sutra (25) propound study
and chanting of Ved Mantras and performance of Vedic karmakand by women.

Decision by Malviyaji

There has been considerable discussion amongst the scholars of Kashi on the
controversy whether women have a right to chant Ved-Mantras. A girl
student named Kumari Kalyani wanted to seek admission to a course in
which Vedas were taught in Banaras Hindu University. The authorities
refused to grant admission according to the prevalent belief on the ground
that a woman, according to Shastras, had no right to chant Ved-mantras.
This controversy continued for quite a long time. A paper "Sarvadeshik"
published several articles in support of the right of women to study Vedas
while the other paper "Sidhanta" took an opposite view. A deputation of
Arya Samajists met University authorities and there was prolonged
discussion on the subject. Ultimately, the University appointed a committee
under the chairmanship of Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya in which
several Vedic scholars were included. The committee, after a thorough study
of the shastras, gave a finding that women have the same right as men in
respect of Vedas. Mahamana Malviyaji, who was considered as the standard
bearer of Sanatan Dharma, announced this decision of the committee on
22nd August 1946. Kumari Kalyani was accordingly admitted to the course
in which Vedas were taught and it was finally decided that henceforth
women would have the right to study Vedas and there would be no
discrimination on grounds of sex. Nobody can say that Mahamana Malviyaji
and his learned colleagues could be hostile to the tenets of Sanatan Dharma.
Their devotion to religion is well-known. What can be said about the
wisdom of those persons who still persist in saying that women have no
right to worship Gayatri when this controversy has been settled once for all
by eminent persons like Malviyaji? The names of several learned women of
the ancient times are still famous. References are found in Vedas about
several women rishis being authors of several Ved-Mantras. It is, therefore,
the duty of all social reformers to follow in this respect the decision given by
Malviyaji who has been a rishi of the present age.
18

GAYATRI IS KAMDHENU

Kamdhenu is believed to be the heavenly cow which gives nectar like milk.
It is said that gods drink it and always remain in a state of self-satisfaction,
happiness and abundance. The speciality of Kamdhenu is that the desire of a
person approaching it is instantly fulfilled. Like Kalpa-vriksha, (heavenly
tree) Kamdhenu, too, fulfills the desires of those who approach it with
pragya and devotion.Kamdhenu is another name of Gayatri. Devata means a
person who possesses divine nature. If a person having divine nature
worships this great power, he drinks spiritual milk from the breasts of the
DivineMother. He is saved from all botherations. The basic nature and characteristic of the individual soul is happiness. Its main attribute is toremain
bathed in eternal bliss. No sooner does it get rid of ignorance-induced pain
and suffering it regains its original nature. Gods in heaven always remain
happy. Man can also remain happy in the same manneron this earth if causes
of his suffering are removed. Kamdhenu Gayatri removes all the sufferings
of her devotees.

Deliverance from Suffering of Three Kinds The causes of all suffering

are:
(1)Ignorance,
(2)Infirmity
(3)In-adequacy.

A person becomes happy to the extent he is able to re-move these causes of

suffering from within him.The outlook of a person about the world gets
vitiated on account of ignorance. Being ignorant of his true identity he gets
entangled in a false sense of identity with the transient phenomena and
19

becomes unhappy. The feelings of selfishness, self-indulgence, greed, ego,

nar-row-mindedness and anger deflect a man from his duty. He abandons
far-sightedness, hankers after money, materials, false name and fame which are all transient and chimerical. Thus he strays away more and more
from his true self which is the spark of the Divine.

This separation from the Source is the original sin. Sin automatically results
in suffering. On account of ignorance he is unable to understand the basic
purpose of his life in this world. Consequently, his hopes, cravings and
imaginations know no end. On account of such a perverted out-look normal
ups and downs of life make him laugh, cry and weep.Death of a relative,
differences in the tastes and temperament of col-leagues, ups and downs and
fluctuations in circumstances are all natural but the ignorant man insists that
what he wants must always hap-pen and he should never be required to face
adverse circumstances.When this does not happen as per his fancies and
events unfold contrary to his wishes, he weeps and cries. Thus, ignorance
leads to innumerable sufferings.Infirmity means weakness. A man is unable
to enjoy his natural basic rights on account of his physical, mental, social,
intellectual and spiritual infirmities.

Delicious dishes, beautiful damsels, sweet music, beautiful scenery have

absolutely no meaning for a diseased person. He cannot enjoy money and
wealth. How can one enjoy the joys of studying literature, poetry,
philosophy etc. if he is intellectually bankrupt Love, devotion, company of
righteous persons and spiritual bliss can hardly be enjoyed by a person who
is spiritually bankrupt? Natures law of survival of the fittest works in
eliminating the weak. The weak are always harassed and eliminated.

Even positive, factors becomequite unfavourable to such a man. Winter

season which adds to thestrength and vigour of strong persons and to the
pleasures of an hu-morist becomes the cause for catching pneumonia, gout,
rheumatismto a person of weak constitution. Factors which are debilitating
forthe weak prove invigorating for the strong. Even mighty emperors
feelproud in adopting the figure of a roaring lion as the state emblem oftheir
kingdom while the weak bleating goat is killed by wild animals oris
20

sacrificed before the idol of Bhawani. The Infirm, thus, always suf-fer and
even favourable factors do not prove helpful to them.Materials security is
yet another cause for human suffering. Difficul-ties of several kinds have to
be faced on account of scarcity of food, clothing, water, housing, cattle,
land, companions, friends, money, medi-cines, books, weapons, teachers etc.
and a person has to curtail hislegitimate needs, suppress his feelings and
waste his precious life. Evencapable and competent persons feel themselves
crippled beaten downfor want of material resources.

Essential Elements of Gayatri sadhana

A Sadhak should remove all disturbing thoughts from his mind and perform
Sadhana with an unperturbed and quiet mind. He should have firm faith,
Importance of Steadiness and concentration of mind in Sadhana
confidence, devotion and reverence. It can hardly be termed Sadhana if the
mouth utters the Mantra, the hand works on the rosary but the mind wanders
wildly. The magnetic field to attract Gayatri cannot be created so long as the
mind remains wavering and restless.
The other obstacle in Sadhana is lack of faith. Some people are by nature
cynical and lack in depth of feelings. They have no real faith in spiritual
pursuits. Words of praise from someone just arouse some casual curiosity in
their minds. They think that by merely chanting a few Mantras their mostcoveted desires might be fulfilled. Some persons are even seen taking a vow
to do prescribe Jap after their desires have been fulfilled. Probably they
assume that divine powers might be sitting hungry in the absence of their
worship. This tendency of crude bargaining is ridiculous and reveals the
shallowness of their faith.
However, if persons who are lacking in faith, devotion and reverence and
those who have an unsteady mind perform Gayatri Sadhana regularly, they
are able to overcome these defects and in course of time, their Sadhana starts
progressing smoothly. By and by faith and confidence are built up and they

21

achieve concentration of mind. A person should, therefore, get started in

Sadhana, although his mind may be unsteady. A day will come when he will

overcome his defects and will receive Divine Mothers grace. He will then
understand that faith, confidence, devotion and reverence have a mighty
power with the help of which impossible looking tasks can be accomplished,
as was done by Bhagirath.
A person engaged in Gayatri Sadhana is required to observe the
followingrules:1) The body should be cleaned by taking bath before sitting in Sadhana. In
the event of any disability, seasonal unfavourableness or illness one can
make do by washing hands and face or by taking a sponge bath with a wet
cloth.
2) One should wear as few clothes as possible at the time of Sadhana. If
there is excessive cold a blanket may be used instead of putting on tight
clothes.
3) The Sadhak should find out an open secluded place for Sadhana where the
atmosphere is calm and quiet. A field, garden, temple or the bank of a river
or lake are best suited for this purpose. But, if such a place is not available, a
clean calm and quiet portion of the house can be selected.
4) It is better to put on newly washed clothes while doing Sadhana.
5) The Sadhak should sit in cross-legged, comfortable position so that there
may not be difficulty in sitting in that posture for a long time, and the mind
is not distracted by a sense of physical discomfort.
6) The back-bone should be kept erect so that the spinal column remains
straight and there is no obstruction in the flow of Pran in Sushumna.

22

7) One should not sit for Sadhana on bare ground. The energy which is
generated flows out into the earth if one sits on the ground. A mat prepared
of Kusha is best for this purpose. In its absence one can sit on a cotton mat.
Woollen and leather carpets are used only for Tantrik Sadhana of Gayatri.
8) Rosary of Tulsi or Sandalwood beads should be used. Rosaries of
rudraksh, red-sandal-wood and conch-shells are used only for Tantrik
Sadhana of Gayatri.
9) Jap should be started two hours before sunrise. In the evening it should be
finished an hour after Sunset. Only Tantrik Sadhanas are performed around
midnight. The non-Tantrik Shadhana should not be performed during the
night.
10) Special attention should be paid in Sadhana to four matters. Firstly, the
mind should not run hither and thither. If it does so, it should be gently
persuaded to meditate on the beautiful image of the Mother. Secondly, there
should be unflinching faith and belief in the Divine Mother. Persons with
wavering faith cannot derive full advantage of Sadhana. Thirdly, the Sadhak
should resolutely stick to Sadhana. Lack of enthusiasm, dejection, ill-health,
delay in getting benefits immediately and other worldly difficulties act as
obstacles in Sadhana. Ignoring them, the Sadhak keeps on advancing on his
way. Fourthly, regularity or continuity is an essential rule of Sadhana.
Howsoever, busy one may be, and even while placed in adverse
circumstances, Mothers worship should not be interrupted. Irregularity in
this respect is harmful. Due compliance of these four rules makes the
progress in Sadhana smooth and sure.
11) Jap of one rosary or one hundred and eight Mantras should be performed
daily. If more Jap could be done it is so much the better.
12) Before starting Sadhana some experienced righteous person should be
made Sadhana-guru. It should be ascertained from the Guru which type of
Sadhana is appropriate. A patient is not competent to diagnose and treat his
own disease. He has to seek the help of some physician. Similarly, a

23

Sadhana-Guru is needed to suggest appropriate Sadhana to rectify

drawbacks and solve difficulties.
13) The Sadhak should sit facing the East (towards the Sun) in the morning
and West in the evening.
14) If one feels tired in sitting in one posture there is no harm in changing
the posture.
15) On being required to get up in between for answering the call of nature
or for any urgent work, Sadhana can be resumed after washing hands, face
etc. with pure water. In that event, Jap of one additional rosary should be
performed by way of penance for such an interruption.
16) If on any day there is break in Sadhana for some unavoidable reason
additional Jap should be performed the next day by way of compensation.
17) Performance of Jap rosary should be stopped during the period of
impurity, in the event of any death or birth in the family. Only mental Jap
can be done during this period. If such an emergency arises during Anusthan
of 1.25 lakh, it should be discontinued during this period and resumed after
the expiring of the period of impurity. Additional Jap of one thousand
Mantras should be performed for purification in lieu of such an interruption.
18) There is no necessity of taking bath during long journeys or illness. In
such an event, mental Jap can be performed during the journey or lying on
bed during illness.
19) The food and daily routine of the Sadhak should be righteous (Satwik).
In food, the Sadhak should eat Satoguni, simple easily digestible food
prepared by some pious person. Chillies, excessive spices and pungent
articles, fried dishes, sweets, stale food-stuffs kept overnight, meat,
intoxicants, food prepared from money earned through foul means, and food
offered disdainfully should be avoided, as far as possible.

24

20) It is always desirable to observe Brahmacharya, but it is specifically

essential to observe it during Gayatri Anusthan.
21) It is also desirable to follow some specific disciplines during Anusthans.
(1) The Sadhak should avoid getting hair of his head cut although he can
shave himself. (2) He should sleep on a hard, wooden bed or on the ground
and not on a cot. (3) Foot-wear of leather should be avoided. (4) Food, if
possible, should be taken only once a day. Fruits or milk can be taken in the
evening. (5) The Sadhak should do his own service himself. He should not,
as far as possible, allow his body and clothes to be touched by others.
22) Sumeru (the central big bead) of the rosary should not be crossed while
doing Jap. After completion of the rosary every time, the Sumeru should be
touched on the eyes and forehead and after reversing it, Jap should be
resumed till the Sumeru is reached again. Materials of worship should be
placed at such a place that they are not touched by others.
23) There should be no slackness in maintaining cleanliness of the place and
articles of worship. Cleanliness of body and clothes is also essential. Jap is
more useful if it is done in a fixed number at a fixed time and place.
There is no harm in doing Sadhana anywhere at whatever time with
unsteady mind, but such symbolic worship is not as beneficial as one which
is done with utmost sincerity and with observance of above mentioned
guidelines.
Gayatri Sadhana is never harmful There are specific rules and procedures for
Mantra Sadhana in general by which Anusthans, Puruscharans are
erformed. Ordinarily, any Anusthan performed in violation of the prescribed
procedure may result in harm instead of doing well.
There are innumerable instances wherein the Sadhak had to suffer on
account of certain omissions in the Sadhana. People have sometimes become
insane. There are also instances narrated in the scriptures and history about
people suffering from illness, death or loss of property due to such

25

aberrations. As the story goes, Vrattra and Indra had to suffer great calamity
on account of wrong pronunciation of Ved-Mantras.
It is but appropriate that like other Ved-Mantra, Gayatri Mantra should also
be pronounced correctly in a rhythm and its Sadhana should be performed in
the prescribed manner, so that it may bestow the desired results. Yet, there is
one speciality in Vedmata Gayatri that an aberration in Gayatri Sadhana
done through ignorance does not cause harm. Just as a compassionate,
generous, wise mother always thinks of her childs welfare, so also, Gayatri
always promotes the wellbeing of the Sadhak. Children often commit
mistakes and behave disrespectfully and rudely towards their mother. Even
then, the mother does not entertain any malice nor does she harm them.
When worldly mothers are so kind and forgiving, far more so is VedmataGayatri who is Mother of the entire Universe and is divine Ganga of
righteousness. She is moved by faith and devotion of her devotees. Sadhaks
aberrations in performance of rituals of Sadhana due to ignorance are
washed away in the divine stream of Mothers love and affection.
Lord Krishna has assured in the Gita that no good action ever reacts
adversely. A work done, bona-fide, with good intention is bound to have
good results. Righteous action, howsoever small it may be, safeguards a
person
against
perils,
fears
and
apprehensions.
Once Gayatri Sadhana has been started, the mind is slowly and steadily
attracted towards it and if, for some reason, it is given up by the Sadhak, a
keen desire to resume Sadhana again repeatedly surges up in his mind. After
tasting some delicious dish once, a person desires to savour it again and
again. In the same way, spiritual food is as sweet as nectar and is so tasteful
that the soul insists in, craves for and cries repeatedly to get it. It never
results in any distress, calamity or hardship. It may be that due to certain
omissions or mistakes one may not get the expected benefits but there is not
the least doubt that even little of Sadhana does not go in vain.
No Discrimination in Gayatri Sadhana God has created all human beings.
How can there be any discrimination on grounds of caste, creed, colour or
sex? All have equal claim on the objects created by God. The sun, moon, air,
water etc. are all being liberally used by every one. No one has the right to
cause obstruction or put any restrictions in the free flow of these divine gifts.
Gayatri Mantra manifested through Brahma in the beginning of the creation.
26

Brahma interpreted it by four mouths in the form of four Vedas. This

knowledge is for the benefit of all mankind.
Persons of all castes, creeds, and of both sexes have equal right to adopt
Gayatri
Mantra
as
means
of
their
Sadhana.
Unfortunately, in the dark feudalistic era of middle ages, discrimination on
the grounds of high and low, master and slave, came in vogue. This
discrimination created a gulf of high and low castes and mankind was
divided into several hierarchical divisions.
Pronouncing women and Shoodras as undeserving, so that they may
consider themselves to be inferior, several such practices were initiated in
which male members of Savarnas (high caste people) enjoyed all the rights,
while women, Shoodras and slaves were depriVed of all of them. Thus, was
it proclaimed by feudal lords and priests that women and Shoodras have no
right to chant Gayatri Mantra Pandits interpolated some fake couplets here
and there in some scriptural texts, so that people may believe that
discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed and sex was an ancient
tradition duly approved by the Shastras.
The present is, however, an era of enlightenment, of fundamental human
rights of equality for all. Women and the so-called Shoodras are integral part
and parcel of mankind. They have been guaranteed equal rights in the
constitution. This is equally applicable in respect of Gayatri Mantra. It
uniformly belongs to all the human race. Persons belonging to any country,
caste, religion or sex can, gladly, adopt Gayatri Mantra for Sadhana and
derive benefit from it. It must not be confined to Brahmans or Dwijas alone.

27

Gayatri Meditation
Human brain is an extremely wonderful cosmic computer. The activity,
movement and potentiality of each of its cells leave even the greatest of
scientists awe-struck. Great energy is generated in the direction in which these
cells are applied. All the physical energy of a person is diverted in the direction
of his desires, aspirations and cravings.
Emotions first arise in human mind. When the mind concentrates on such
emotions a magnetic field is created which attracts the desired elements from
the atmosphere. This is the science of meditation. On this basis (AdiShakti) the
power of the primordial energy pervading the interior of the nature can be
attracted by the Sadhak towards him and retained by him within himself.
Gayatri should be meditated upon daily at the time of Jap or at any convenient
time. The Sadhak should sit for meditation in a secluded place having calm and
quiet atmosphere. Mind should be steady and the body relaxed. While
meditating during Jap one should sit in cross-legged position, keeping the
backbone straight. When not meditating with Jap one can sit on an easy-chair or
take the support of a large round pillow, wall or a tree. Body should be relaxed,
as if it is life-less. Eyes should be closed, both the hands should be rested in the
lap and it should be visualized that nothing but a vast blue space exists
everywhere. At the time of Pralaya (universal annihilation) nothing survives
except the blue sky or space. A mental picture of such a stage of universal
annihilation should be drawn in imagination and when it is fully established, a
small round mass of light should be visualized in distant space by inner
vision. Thus Gayatri should be meditated in the form of a small brilliant star, as
bright as the sun. With development of concentration in meditation this round
mass of light comes more and more closer and becomes bigger and brighter.

On minute observation, black spots are visible in the middle portion of the Sun
or Moon. In the same way in the round mass of light of Gayatri a faint image of
Gayatri should be visualized in the beginning. Slowly and gradually this image
28

appears to be clearer - smiling, speaking, sensitive and lively to the Sadhak.

Before starting meditation the picture of Gayatri Mata should be examined
minutely, lovingly and repeatedly along with its each and every part and it
should be firmly established in the mind in such a way that the Sadhak may be
able to formulate a mental glimpse of that image within the round mass of light.
In due course of time a beautiful and enchanting image of Gayatri Mata
surrounded by a round mass of brilliant light will be visible to the Sadhak.
Just as a person sitting in the sun feels warmth, similarly the proximity of
Gayatri in the form of a mass of light suffuses the Sadhaks mind , his inner-self
and his entire body with divine light. Just as iron, when put in the fire, becomes
red-hot, so also, when the Sadhak retains the brilliance of Gayatri within
himself during meditation, he becomes one with the Almighty Goddess,
becomes a rishi, radiant with Brahmateja. He feels as if his whole body has
become red hot like pure gold and a celestial, divine, sun-like light shines
through him. The impurities, sins etc. of the Sadhaks soul are burnt out in this
light. He feels himself god-like, pure, fearless, pious and detached.

In this meditation, lights of different colours are seen. Sometimes small and big
stars of different colours are seen appearing and disappearing in this light. They
are seen moving from one direction to other, sometimes traversing back in
opposite directions. Sometimes, they are seen moving round in a circle and also
shooting fast like an arrow. These are all good omens of progress in meditation.
With the growth of the energy of Gayatri within the soul, several potentialities
and qualities start developing which are reflected in the form of small masses of
light of different colours.
When this Sadhana becomes more mature and profound, the brilliance of
Gayatri stabilizes in the middle of the brain or heart. This is the stage of
attaining Siddhi. When the Sadhak attracts that brilliance from the outer space
and settles it within himself, a stage is reached where his body and Gayatris
life force combine at one point. Just as a person, under the influence of an evil
spirit, acts according to the will of the latter, so also after establishing Gayatri
within himself, the thoughts, actions, behaviour, feelings, tastes, desires,
29

aspirations of the Sadhak are oriented towards selflessness and universal good.
Progressively, animality decreases and divinity increases.
This is the ideal form of meditation of Gayatri. When the Sadhak meditates on
Gayatri in the form of a mass of light, he should feel that along with its rays,
wisdom, virtuousness and divine energy are being infused in him. When the
Sadhak comes out of such a meditation he feels that the proportion of wisdom,
purity and refinement has increased within his mind and body. The Sadhak in
due course, becomes a store of divine light (Brahmateja). This divine light is
like a bank draft which can be instantly got encashed at any bank of Shreya or
preya and divine or material riches, as the case may be, obtained in lieu thereof.

Higher spiritual practice of Gayatri

Inexhaustible Source of Spiritual Energy
The scriptures prescribe that Gayatri should be worshipped thrice daily during
Trikal Sandhaya in the morning, at noon and in the evening. It is all the more
beneficial if Jap, worship, meditation and contemplation of Gayatri is done even
more intensively. But for specific purposes, when more energy is required to be
generated, specific performance which is known as Anusthan is done. When
long journey is proposed to be undertaken, special food and adequate money are
kept for being used in transit. Anusthan, similarly is like journey expenses.
When this energy capital is accumulated, Sadhaks journey through life,
whether in mundane or spiritual pursuit, becomes easier and smoother.
When a tiger pounces upon a deer or a cat attacks a mouse or a heron attacks a
fish, they pause for a moment, stop breathing, move back a little, and sharpen
all their inner faculties and then charge suddenly on their prey. An athlete in
high or long jump, stops for a moment, moves back a little and then leaps up or
forward. A wrestler also takes a counter-move and suddenly changes his
strategy. A marksman has also to do the same thing before shooting. In
Anusthan, same thing has to be done on spiritual level. If any calamity has to be
averted or some success achieved it is done by performance of Anusthan.

30

The baby cries ma-ma and loving conversation between him and his mother
goes on throughout the day, But when due to some emergency the child cries
loudly and bitterly his mother abandons all work, rushes and attends to the
child. Anushtan is such an emergency call of Sadhak which has specific force
and magnetism in it. The Sadhak, thereby, attracts within him, the extraordinary
energy of Gayatri.
When human endeavour fails, there is no way out to avert a crisis. Darkness
prevails all-around, the future appears grimly dark, and circumstances become
menacingly adverse. In such a plight, it is but natural to become nervous. The
intellect of such a worried and dejected person does not work properly. A
pigeon caught in a net is entrapped more and more when it flutters to get out of
it. On such occasions, the name of God is the only strength. Draupadi, Narsi,
Prahlad etc. had to call upon Divine help in a state of utter helplessness. When
human efforts fail, the entire situation is changed by divine intervention. The
intense dark night of calamity suddenly disappears with the out-break of Light
and a person is able to see the right path. Anusthan erupts in the heart in the
form of light which enlightens the path.
Extra-ordinary relief is obtained by Gayatri Anusthan in worldly difficulties,
mental disturbance and internal restlessness. No doubt, Gayatri does not
literally give the Sadhak a golden treasure. But it is also true that by its
influence fundamental positive changes take place in human attitude and
mentality which make it possible to find appropriate solutions to difficulties.
Appropriate intelligence, wisdom and far-sightedness are intuitively revealed to
the Sadhak to enable him to surmount the special difficulties and challenges
faced by him. Some irrelevant way ward thoughts, desires and cravings
overpower a person having a confused mind on account of which he remains
unhappy for no reason. Gayatri Sadhana cleanses the mind in such a way that
things which formerly appeared to be crucially important appear to be
insubstantial and trivial. Such internal changes take place by Anushtan on
account of which an unhappy, worried and harassed person suddenly finds
himself uplifted into a state of peace, harmony and joy.
Jap of 1, 25,000 Mantras is known as Anusthan. There are certain conditions for
a thing to attain maturity. Pulse, vegetables, bricks, glass etc. require to be
31

heated upto a particular temperature. Fruits take their own time to ripen. Eggs
need specific time for hatching. A baby takes its due time in mothers womb
before birth. Premature action in all such matters results in complications and
failure. In Anusthan, performance of Jap of 1, 25,000 Mantras in the prescribed
period culminates in desired fulfilment.

Procedure of Anusthan
Anusthan can be started in any month. Panchmi, Ekadshi, Poornmasi are
considered auspicious days to begin. The attributes of Durga, Saraswati
Ekadashi and Pooranmasi respectively. There is no bar of Shukla or Krishna
paksha, although Shukla-paksha is considered more auspicious.
During Anusthan, Gayatri should be invoked before starting and reverently
bidden to leave at the end of worship daily. In this process, sentiments and
prayer play the key role. The presence of divine, kind-hearted, affectionate
Universal Mother Gayatri should be invoked by praying in Sanskrit or in ones
own mother tongue. It should be believed that accepting the prayer, the
Mother has been kind enough to appear. At the time of Visarjan (leaving), the
divine all powerful Mother should be prayed to in Sanskrit or in ones own
language to kindly leave and it should be believed that, accepting the prayer,
She has left.
There is reference in several books that Yagya (offering in sacrificial fire) of
one-tenth of total amount of Jap and Tarpan of one-tenth of Yagya should be
performed and one-tenth proportion of Tarpan should be devoted to feeding
Brahmans. But this rule applies to Anusthan done by Tantrik method only. In
Anushtan performed according to the way of Vedik Yog system Tarpan is not
necessary. But at the end of Anusthan, Yagya of at least 108 Ahuti offerings in
sacrificial fire has to be performed although more can be done if it is
convenient. Similarly, at least three Brahmans should be fed. No limit has been
prescribed for offering money in charity. It may be done according to Sadhaks
resources and faith.
32

In Nirakar worship Bhagwati Gayatri should be installed as Shakti on an altar

decorated with beautiful flowers. In Sakar worship a beautiful picture or
image of Bhagwati may be installed on such an altar decorated with flowers.
Some Sadhaks invoke Bhagwati in the spark of incense-stick or in the pointed
flame of the lighted lamp kept on the altar and feel the presence of their
adorable Deity. At the time of Visarjan, the idol/picture should be made to
sleep and should be removed and immersed in some river, tank or holy place.
Half-burnt incense-sticks or wick of the lamp should be extinguished and
should also be immersed along with the flowers. Half-burnt wick should not be
used the next day.
Five articles have mainly been considered esential and auspicious in Gayatri
worship. Incense should be burnt, lamp should be lighted, naivedya (sweet
offering) should be offered, sandal-wood paste should be applied and rice
should be scattered. If Gayatri has been installed in the form of a lighted lamp,
a water pot should be kept as fifth article of worship.
The Sadhak should sit in the morning on clean, ground on a carpet of Kush,
facing the East, and keep a pot of water close by. The lamp should remain
lighted and incense should burn throughout the Jap. If the lamp is
extinguished, it should be relighted by placing a new wick in it. The Ghrit
remaining in the lamp can be used again.
Jap should be started immediately after installation and worship of Gayatri on
the altar. This should be the daily routine. Mind should be steady and full of
devotion during Jap. Whenever it goes astray, it should be reined in, brought
under control and concentration practised. By this method power of
concentration will develop day by day.
The system of completing Jap of 1,25,000 Mantras in forty days is in vogue
since ancient times. But a weak person or those who are not habituated by
earlier practice may complete it within two months. The number of daily Jap of
twenty rosaries or malas (of 108 Mantras each) should be done daily. To
facilitate counting of rosaries or malas, small tablets of chalk clay wetted with
Ganga water should be kept at one place. Jap should be closed when all the
33

tablets are collected at the other end. There are no chances of error if such a
system is adopted.
The Mantra of invoking the Gayatri is as follows :
At the end of Anusthan, Yagna should be performed, money should be offered
in charity and Brahmbhoj done according to ones resources. For Brahmbhoj
only such Brahmans are invited who are real Brahmans and are devoted to
God. Money given in charity or food served to undeserving persons goes
waste.

Gayatri Sadhana in Nav Durga

Although, winter, summer and rains have been described to be three seasons,
strictly speaking there are only two seasons, namely winter and summer. The
period of conjunction when one season ends and the other starts is known as
Nav-Durga.
The time when day and night meet is known as morning or evening twilight
(Sandhya-kal) and this is considered to be an important period. Taking of
food, sleeping, indulging in sex, commencing journey and similar other
works are, forbidden at the time of sunrise and sunset. This time has to be
utilized in meditation, worship, Sadhana etc. for which it is best suited and
yields wonderful results with minimum effort. The meeting period of
summer and winter is an auspicious period like morning and evening
twilight. As the story goes in Purans, seasons become menstruous during
these nine days of Nav-Durga. Just as all precautions are taken in respect of
food, rest, behaviour etc. during the period of menstruation, similarly,
precautions have to be taken during these periods of Nav-Durga.
Physicians know it well that there is great impact on the body due to change
in seasons in the month of Ashwin and Chaitra and several persons catch
fever, influenza, small-pox, diarrhoea, dejection etc. The hospitals remain
flooded with patients these days. Vaidyas who deal in Ayurvedic medicine
and naturopathy consider this period of Asvin and Chaitra most suitable for
stimulating vomiting, purgation, perspiration and similar other acts for
purification of the body. Both Nav-durgas are followed by important
34

festivals of Dashehra and Ramnavami. Goddess Durga manifested herself at

the end of Asvin Nav-Durga. Bhagwan Ram incarnated at the end of Chaitra

Nav-Durga.
Apparently this period of change of season appears to be harmful because
most of the people suffer from one ailment or the other. But in fact this is not
so. The immune system of the body tries to set right all defects and diseases
which develop on account of transgressions committed during the previous six
months in food and daily routine. The process of self-purification manifests
itself in the form of cough, cold, fever etc. If the body gets an opportunity to
cleanse itself by observing fast and taking limited balanced diet and the mind
remains engrossed in Jap and worship, physical and mental impurities can be
easily thrown out and health fully restored. This small Anusthan of Gayatri is,
therefore, extremely useful from health point of view also.
Nav-Durga falls in Shukla paksha from Pratipada to Navmi in Ashwin and
Chaitra. This is the time best suited for Gayatri Sadhana. Jap of twenty-four
thousand Mantras should be performed and fast should be observed during
these days. This mini Sadhana is as useful as a big Anusthan.
Food consisting of cereals at one time and milk and fruits or milk or fruits
should be taken at the other time. Those who can afford to remain on the diet
of fruits and milk or milk alone can do so if their health permits. The Sadhak
should get up early and sit for Sadhana in the small hours of the morning
(Brahma-muhurt) after finishing daily routine like bath etc. in the manner
already prescribed. Twenty-four thousand Japas are to be performed in nine
days. This can be done by performing jap of 27 rosaries daily, which would
take three to four hours. If it appears to be strenuous to complete Jap in one
sitting, a major portion of it should be finished in the morning and balance in
the evening. Havan or Yagya of 108 Mantras should be performed on the last
day. Offering of money in charity and feeding of brahmans should also be done
as mentioned earlier.
35

This small Anusthan of nine days should be performed by the Sadhak himself
in both the Nav-durgas every year. If for some reason it is not possible for a
person to do it himself, it can be got accomplished by some competent
capable Brahman. Sadhana done during these days proves to be extremely
useful for getting rid of anxieties,fulfilling desires and developing spiritual
power.

This small Anusthan can also be done at any time besides Nav-Durga.
Anusthan of 1,25,000 Jap in forty days is a complete Anusthan and the smaller
one of nine days is its one-fifth part, which should be done according to
convenience and need. The wealth of Tap, devout austerity, should be
amassed in as large a measure as may be possible.

Gayatri Mantra in Miniature Form

Just as small Anusthan of nine days has been prescribed for those who are
unable to perform full Anusthan of 1,25,000 Mantras in forty days, similarly,
uneducated women or children who are unable to remember full Gayatri
Mantra of twentyfour letters can perform Jap of abridged Gayatri Mantra
known as Panchakshari Mantra. It consists of Pranav and three Vyahritis,
namely , Om bhoor bhuvaha swaha. Just as the seed of all the Vedas is
Gayatri Mantra, so also the origin of Gayatri Mantra is Panchakshari Mantra
consisting of Pranav and Vyahritis. This small Mantra is extremely useful
for the convenience of lay persons.

Special Sadhanas for women

36

Women have the same right as men in respect of worship of Vedmata

Gayatri. To convert inertia into momentum two objects of opposite qualities
which attract each other are required. Electricity is generated by attraction
and repulsion of negative and positive currents. Electrons and protons of an
atom get activated on account of their mutual give and take. This conscious
creation has been divided into male and female forms to make the eternal
animate creation alive; otherwise this universe would have remained
enveloped in inconscience. Union of rayi and Pran energies results in
chaitanya. If there is no union of male and female elements, consciousness,
pleasure, pulsation, speed, activity, growth etc. will all disappear and
inconscience
will
reign
supreme
in
the
Universe.
Male and female elements supplement each other. One is incomplete without
the other. The importance, utility, position and rights of each are the same.
Those who say that women have no right to chant Gayatri Mantra, which is a
Ved-Mantra, are completely mistaken. Of course, uneducated, unwise and
impious women are like Shudra; and due to their own mental state they
become depriVed of the right of Gayatri worship.
Women have equal right with men to perform all Sadhanas relating to
Gayatri described in this book. It has, however, been observed that
housewives who are ever much busy in house-hold chores, who have small
children to look after and are unable to maintain cleanliness cannot find time
to take up difficult Sadhanas. They have to be provided with a technique of
Sadhana which is easy and does not take much time. Those who cannot
remember full Gayatri Mantra can make do with chanting the brief
Panchakshari Mantra (Om bhoor bhuvaha swaha). During the period of
menses they should suspend regular Sadhana. The performance of Anusthan,
if it is being done, should also be suspended during this period. It can be
resumed on the expiry of this period, after taking bath.
Issue-less women or those whose children have grown up, unmarried women
or widows, can conveniently perform Gayatri Sadhana like men. In routine
Sadhana it is not necessary to observe specific rules and restrictions and
there is no bar to discharging normal marital functions. But during specific
Sadhana or Anusthan, the rule of observing Brahmacharya is to be strictly
followed.

Sadhana for Concentration of Mind and Self-realization

37

Gayatri Sadhana can be used as an unfailing discipline by widows for

exercising self-restraint, controlling sensuousness and for promoting
righteousness and wisdom. Feelings of mental peace, steadiness, wisdom
and self-restraint start growing from the very day. this Sadhana is started.
Mind is brought under control and wayward thoughts are reigned in and
silenced by righteousness. Desires, tastes, actions, sentiments, become pure,
pious and righteous (Satoguni). Interest develops in self-realization, devout
austerity, penance and love of God. Slowly and steadily the Sadhika is
transformed into a Sadhwi, Tapasvini, Brahmavadini. She sees divinity in
the form of Gayatri and attains deep inner peace in comparison to which the
life of a mere house-wife appears to her to be purposeless.
Before sitting in Sadhana, women should take bath in the early morning by
warm or cool water according to season. Water which is very hot or very
cold is harmful for women. A pot of water should be kept close by. Rosary
or mala of Tulsi and Kushasan are best suited. Gayatri should be meditated
upon in the form of a middle-aged lady with a smiling face, wearing white
clothes sitting on a bull, having four hands containing mala, kamandal, book
and lotus flower. This meditation is extremely useful for controlling mind
and developing righteousness. Mind should be applied repeatedly on this
meditation. In Jap there should be some sound from the throat, lips should be
so moved that even a person sitting close-by is not able to hear what is being
uttered. Jap can be performed both in the morning as well as in the evening.
More Jap can also be performed according to convenience. It is all the more
beneficial if life of devout austerity and penance could be lived.

Gayatri Sadhana For House-Wifes

God does not discriminate between a son and a daughter. Only persons of
crude mentality do so. Women should refuse to listen to the biased views of
any person who says that women have no right to do Gayatri Sadhana. They
can worship it and also perform Yagya. Keeping in view the fact that they
remain busy throughout the day, a brief routine of Gayatri Sadhana,
including Yagya, convenient to all women is being presented here.
38

Most of the housewives are extremely busy in the morning in cleaning work,
preparing breakfast and doing other daily household chores. In the morning
the children go to school and male members have to go out for work and
everybody is in a hurry. Most of the household work in the morning has to
be done by the house-wife in the morning, although daughters, elderly ladies
also give a helping hand. Morning time, therefore, does not suit most of the
women-folk for Sadhana. In the evening also there is a similar pressure of
work on them.Keeping all these factors in view, the time between 12 noon to
3 pm. appears to be most convenient to them for performing AnusthanSadhana etc. Of course, they can perform Jap of one mala in the morning
after taking bath.
If they happen to do mental Jap while cooking meals there will be good
effect on all the persons who will take that food. Regular Jap should be
suspended during the period of menses. Mental Jap can, however, be
performed in all circumstances. Women who put on Yagnopaveet should
replace it by a new one after the period of menstruation.
If women are enthusiastic about maintaining holy atmosphere in the house, it
will have salutary impact on other members of the family, who will feel
automatically inclined to lead virtuous lives. For this, by way of daily
routine, members of the family should not only greet and salute the elders
daily in the morning but they should also bow in front of the picture of
Gayatri Mata placed in the family worship place and chant Gayatri Mantra
five times.
In the evening, after the members of the family are free from their meals
etc., the children should be entertained by reading over to them inspiring
stories published by the Gayatri Mission, folders etc., which they can easily
understand, so that mind and emotions are oriented towards virtuous life. To
inspire the elderly members, Pragya puran, published in four volumes,
should be read over to the whole family daily like Geeta and Ramayan. This
programme can be continued for months. After finishing one reading the
process can be repeated again and again.
Keeping in view the fact that people are extremely busy these days and there
is general lack of faith and devotion, religious routines which are interesting
to all can be adopted. Being masters of the kitchen, women can easily
accomplish this sacred task. At the time of preparation of food, the first
39

chapati should be divided into five morsels and chanting Gayatri Mantra
each morsel should be offered in the fire along with some ghee and sugar.
The tradition of Yagna is an integral part of Indian culture. This process of
offering bread-pieces in the fire is symbolic worship and keeps the
sentiments of sacrifice, (Yagna) alive in us.
While feeding a suckling child, mothers should do mental Jap of Gayatri
Mantra. It will be good if they meditate upon the luminous God, Savita.

Sadhana for Unmarried Girls for a Happy Married

life.
Unmarried girls can worship Bhagwati for getting peace and happiness in
married life. Parvati performed Tap according to Narads directions for
getting the husband of her choice and ultimately her aspiration was fulfilled.
Sita worshipped Gouri to get the husband of her choice. Gayatri Sadhana is
beneficial in all respects if it is done by unmarried girls in Nav-Durga.
The picture or image of Gayatri should be kept on a small carpet or altar and
Chandan, incense, lighted lamp, rice, grains, flowers and sweets, water etc.
should be offered. The lighted lamp or camphor should be moved circularly
round the idol or picture of Gayatri Mata. Chandan can be applied on the
fore-head of the idol but not on the picture otherwise it maybe spoiled. Eyes
should be closed during the meditation. Mental Jap of Gayatri Mantra at
least twenty-four times should be performed. The picture or image of
Gayatri can, if necessary, be obtained from Shantikunj, Hardwar. Gayatri
Sadhana is most useful for unmarried girls. It helps them in getting good
life-mates and good fortune.

Beneficial Sadhana for Married Women

Married women should worship Gayatri Mata for happiness, prosperity,
health and longitivity of their husbands. The spoiled nature, thoughts and
behaviour of their husbands get purified and suffused with righteous wisdom
with which they are able to discharge their house-hold obligations with
enthusiasm and commitment. A woman who performs this Sadhana is loVed
40

and respected by all due to her sweet nature, cooperative and serviceoriented attitude cultivated as a result of Sadhana. House-wives should
perform Gayatri-Sadhana to set right their own and their family members
deteriorating health, to remove financial stringency, poverty, family
disputes, misunderstandings mutual conflicts etc. Family members on her
paternal side as well as those belonging to her husbands family, both are
benefited by her Gayatri Sadhana. However, it is particularly beneficial for
family members of the husband of such Sadhikas.
Sadhana should be performed in the morning before noon. Food should not
be taken till Sadhana is completed. Water can be taken. The Sadhika should
sit with clean body, mind and clothes facing East. Sandal-wood paste mixed
with saffron should be applied on the forehead, heart and throat. Image or
picture of Gayatri should be installed and it should be worshipped according
to the prescribed procedure. Yellow coloured flowers, rice, sandal-wood
paste mixed with saffron, ladoos of gram-flour should be used for worship
and prasad. In Arti, cows ghrit of yellow colour and if it is not available any
ghrit mixed with saffron, should be used. Sandalwood powder should be
used as incense. In short, preference should be given to maximum use of
yellow colour in worship. She should meditate with closed eyes upon
Goddess Gayatri wearing yellow-coloured clothes, sitting on yellow tiger
under yellow coloured sky. At least one of the clothes, if not all, worn by
women at the time of worship should be of yellow colour. Meditating in the
aforesaid manner, Jap of at least twenty-four Mantras should be performed.
Mind should be applied to Bhagwati Gayatri whenever there is an
opportunity to do so. Fast should be observed on every Poornmasi (full
moon day), In daily food one article of yellow colour should always be
taken. It is good to occasionally apply paste of turmeric powder on the body.
This yellow coloured Sadhana is beneficial for making marital life happy.

Women whose children always remain sick or die prematurely, who get only

Sadhana for Pregnancy

41

male or female issues, who are infertile, or whose issues are pro-crastinators,
lazy, dull, wicked, disobedient etc. may get rid of their anxiety by ardently
praying to Vedmata Gayatri. There are several instances within my knowledge
in which childless women had begged the favour of getting a child from
Vedmata Gayatri and they have been duly blessed by Bhagwati. Nothing is
impossible for Gayatri Mata to grant. There can, therefore, be no impediment
for a barren woman being blessed with an issue.

If a pregnant woman meditates upon effulgent Light in their womb before

sunrise and sunset and perform mental Jap of Gayatri, the child to be born will
be
brilliant,
wise,
long-living
and
renowned.
A woman who has no issue should sit in Sadhana with a wet cloth around her
waist and should meditate as if the light of Gayatri, like the rays of the Sun is
entering into her womb, through her vagina. Eyes should be closed. This
Sadhana helps in conception. Kunti had performed this Sadhana and had been
able to conceive and give birth to Karna. This Sadhana should not be done by
unmarried
girls.
Soon after finishing Sadhana water should be offered in libation to the Sun and
a handful of remaining water should be drunk. By doing this Sadhana a barren
woman can conceive and those who get abortions or whose children die
immediately after birth are able to give birth to normal children.

Mothers having sick, lazy, mischievous or irritable babies should take such
babies in their lap and meditate upon Gayatri siting on a swan decorated with
pink lotus flowers carrying a conch and a disc in her hands and perform mental
Jap. This Jap has life-transforming effects on the mind and body of the child. If
the baby is still suckling, the mother may feed him at the time of this Sadhana.
Otherwise, she may touch the head and other parts of the body of the child.
Keeping fast on Thursday is useful for the welfare of such children. After
finishing Sadhana water should be offered in libation to the Sun and remaining
water should be sprinkled on the child.
42

Sadhana for a specific purpose

For avoidance of any calamity befalling any member of the family or for
removing any obstacle or difficulty coming in the way of some urgent work,
nothing is so effective as divine help through the medium of Gayatri
Sadhana. When fulfillment of any wish is hindered, Vedmata Gayatri should
be remembered and invoked. Just as a mother rushes to help her child on
hearing his cries, the worshipper of Gayatri actually experiences boundless
compassion and love of the Divin Mother.
Small Anusthan of nine days and full Anusthan of forty days durations
should be performed to fulfil immediate needs. If a woman cannot perform it
herself it should be got done by someone well-versed in Gayatri Sadhana.
Observance of devout austerity and penance, as already described, helps in
pleasing Bhagwati. Gayatri Upasana of one years duration fulfils all
righteous desires. Gayatri Anusthans are as important for women as for
men.
In daily Sadhana, recital of Gayatri Chalisa is most useful for women.
Women, who put on Kanthi around their necks instead of Yagnopaveet,
attain dwijatva and become entitled to worship Gayatri.

Activation of Internal Power Centres by Gayatri

Sadhana
The masters of Mantra-Vidya know that words are uttered by different parts of
the mouth such as, throat (larynx), tongue, teeth, lips and the root of the tongue.
43

During speech, the nerve-fibres of the particular parts of the mouth from which
sound emits stretch upto different parts of the body and put pressure on the
corresponding glands. If particular glands of the person concerned are diseased
or dysfunctional he starts stammering while uttering the specific words. There
are many large and small, visible and invisible glands in the body. Yogis know
that some specific energies lie hidden in these glands, Shat-Chakras (six energy
centre) related to the Sushumana are quite well-known but there are several
other such glands in the body. The utterance of different words has its impact
on different glands and by such impact the energy of these glands gets
stimulated. Mantras have been composed on this basis. There are twenty-four
letters in Gayatri-Mantra which are related to twenty-four such glands located
in the body which, on getting stimulated, activate and awaken the powers of
righteous wisdom. By uttering Gayatri Mantra the sitar of the subtle
(Sookshma) body of the Sadhak starts playing, tinkling at twenty-four points,
creating sound waves which impact important elements of the invisible world.
It is this impact which becomes more and more pronounced and tangible
through Gayatri Sadhana.
The flow of sound of these twenty-four letters of the Maha Mantra is of deep
significance. The experts of the science of sound know the powers hidden in
sound and the results which can be achieved by its subtle vibrations. Sound is
synonymous with Brahma. It is Brahma from whom the original first creative
vibration issues forth resulting in seven-time chanting of OM. Just as the
pendulum of a clock keeps on moving by swinging to and fro, in the same way
the sound waves of Om create vibrations which regulate this creation. Later,
three main waves of Sat, Raj and Tam relating to Hreem, Shreem and Kleem
elements respectively flow in this current. It is further divided into branches and
sub-branches which are known as Beej-Mantras. The letters, words and clauses
of Gayatri Mantra have been seen by a seer vision and emanate from the unified
field of creative energy, arranged in a specific and special sequence and interrelationship. Chanted with sincere devotion, they plug the sadhaks soul into the
supreme and inexhaustible fount of spiritual energy.
Singing of Deepak-rag lights up extinguished lamps. It starts raining when
megh-malhar tune is sung. The melody created by playing flute makes the
snakes wave their hoods in synchronicity, deer gets swooned and cows start
44

yielding more milk. The warbling of cuckoo incites passion. Even strong iron
bridges may collapse by the sound created by the in-step, coordinated and
rhythmic marching of a troop soldiers. The army is, therefore, forbidden to
march rhythmically, in-step, while crossing a bridge. Dr. Hutchinson of
America has achieved success and fame in curing several patients suffering
from incurable and painful diseases by different musical sounds. In India,
Tantriks keep a Thali (large metallic plate) on a pot and play it in a special
rhythm and are capable of curing persons bitten by poisonous snakes, scorpions
etc. and those suffering from thyroid goitre, Vishvel (poisonous creeper),
ghosts, mania etc. The vibrations of a specific sound spread in the ether and
attract atoms of similar type and return to their origin within few moments, duly
charged with appropriate energy which exercises curative impact in the
appropriate area. This is how Mantras accomplish miraculous effects. The
chanting of Gayatri Mantra activates the network of nerves in the mouth and
stimulates specific glands. No sooner do they get stimulated, a Vedic symphony
is created which spreads in the ether, takes a round of the entire universe,
coming back to the source with its energy augmented manifold, capable of
fulfilling the desired purpose.
Gayatri Sadhana, thus, becomes a spiritual as well as a material boon for the
Sadhak.
The factor which makes Gayatri Mantra extremely potent is the sadhaks
confidence coupled with faith. Psychologists are well acquainted with the
power of self confidence. Instances have been cited in several of my books and
articles to prove that only on account of imaginary fear people met untimely
death and persons who were almost dead got new life on account of faith and
confidence. Tulsidas has in his Ramayan compared faith and confidence to
Bhawani and Shankar and stated, Bhawani Shankaro vande shraddha vishvas
rupino. It is faith which has the power to turn a bush into a ghost, a rope into a
snake and an idol into God. There are people who happily sacrifice money,
comfort and even life for defending ones faith and conviction. Eklavya, Kabeer
etc. are examples of persons who acquired Knowledge not directly from their
masters, Gurus, but by dint of their unflinching faith in them. The basis of
hypnotism is to get the desired work done by the subject just by infusing faith in
him in the words of the physician. The Mantra of the Tantrik works
45

miraculously on the patient only if he has deep faith in it. A Sadhak devoid of
faith may utter that Tantrik Mantra hundreds of times but it will not have any
effect. This fact applies to Gayatri Mantra also. When the Sadhak takes up
Sadhana with faith and confidence Gayatri Mantra becomes much more
effective and proves to be extra-ordinarily powerful due to the combined effect
of faith and the Mantras own instrinsic spiritual energy.
It is shown in the sketch, which particular letter of Gayatri is related to which
part of the body. The details are given in the following chart :-

Letter (Gland) Granthi Involved Energy

1 tat Tapini success

2 sa Saphalta bravery (Parakram)
3 vi Vishwa maintenance (Palan)
4 tur Tushti wellbeing (Kalyan)
5 va varda Yog
6 re revati love (prem)
7 ni Sookshma money
8 yam gyana brilliance(tej)
9 bhar bharga defence (raksha)
10 go gomati intellect (buddhi)
11 de devika suppression (daman)
12 va varahi devotion (nistha)
13 sya sinhani dharna (power of retention)
46

14 dhee dhyan Pran (life-breath)

15 ma maryada self-restraint (sanyam)
16 hi sfuta tap
17 dhi medha far-sightedness
18 yo yogmaya jagriti (awakening)
19 yo yogini production
20 naha dharini sarasta (sweetness)
21 pra prabhava ideal
22 cho ooshma courage
23 da drashya wisdom (vivek)
24 yat niranjan sewa (service)
Gayatri activates the above-mentioned twenty-four divine qualities in the
devotee. With their growth, varied accomplishments (Siddhis) and prosperity
start manifesting in the life of the devotees. Most of the people think that some
god or goddess is bestowing these gifts because they are unable to see and
understand the working of these subtle divine energies and the transformations
flowing therefrom. Once they understand that transformations are taking place
as a result of their own Sadhana they would realise that it is not by way of some
unexpected gift from somewhere but is the result of a well organized scientific
process of spiritual growth. Gayatri Sadhana is not based on blind faith but has
a solid scientific basis.

Awakening of Kundalini by Gayatri Sadhana

47

There are several organs (energy centres) in the human body. These extraordinary organs are vulnerable and delicate, as they are vital centres of
dormant spiritual energies. If they are awakened, a person can be
transformed. He can be flooded with such marvellous divine energies that
people will stand amazed before his presence.
Spine is the foundation and the spinal cord encased within it is the main vital
part of the body. Spine consists of thirty-three small disc-like bones known
as vertebrae which contain divine energies. The spinal cord represents thirtythree deities, because the powers which are centred in them are found within
these thirty-three vertebrae. The powers of eight Vasus, twelve Adityas,
eleven Rudras, Indra and Prajapati are found in seed form in the spinal-cord,
which is enclosed in the spine.
According to physiology, there are several channels in this hollow spinalcord, three of which, namely, Ida, Pingla and Sushumna, are the main ones.
They cannot be seen by the naked eye because they have no physical form
and are related to the subtle world. In fact, this is like invisible flow of
electric current. Electricity is produced when positive and negative currents
meet. Ida is called negative or Chandra Nadi and Pingla is called positive or
Surya Nadi. Broadly speaking, they can be called cold and hot currents.
When both these currents meet, a third current, known as Sushumna is
produced. Ganga and Yamuna meet in Prayag. By this conjunction a third
invisible (subtle) current, which is known as Saraswati, is formed. The
confluence of these three rivers is known as Triveni. In the spinal cord also,
the meeting of Ida and Pingla creates the third current Sushumna and this is
known as Triveni in spiritual terms. This Triveni is connected to the top
centre of the brain, known as Brahmarandhra or Sahasra Kamal, at one end ,
and to the base of the spine in the middle of the genital area at the other end.
Three subtle currents, which are known as Vajra, Chittrani and Brahamnadi
flow in Sushumna. Just as by cutting the stem of a plantain tree one finds
layers of bark one after the other, so also there is Vajra inside Sushumna
Chitrani inside Vajra and Brahamnadi inside Chitrani. This Brahamnadi is
the vital point and centre of divine energy and there are layers, one after the
other, over it meant for its protection.
When this Brahamnadi reaches the top of the head in brahmarandhra it
spreads all-around in thousands of branches. This portion is known as
sahasradal Kamal (Lotus flower having a thousand petals). In ornamental
language it has been described as Vishnus bed of Sheshnag (thousand48

headed cobra). In the statues and pictures of incarnations like Buddha, a

special cluster of curly hair can be noticed on their head. This is nothing but
an artistic picturisation of Sahasradal Kamal which is connected to subtle
energies pervading the universe. Sound waves are thrown and picked up
from the space by the filaments of radio transmitters. Sahasrar Kamal is just
like an aerial / antennae of brain. It picks up infinite energy waves of the
Omniscient God from the invisible subtle cosmos. When a hungry python
awakens, it takes a deep breath and by its terrific power attracts into its grip,
birds flying in the sky and swallows them. Similarly, sheshnag, with its
thousands-hooded head, which is also known as Sahasrar Kamal, attracts
divine powers from the infinite space. Just as hissing of an angry python
makes the surrounding atmosphere poisonous to a certain extent, a person
with an enlightened Sahasrar Kamal (brain) emits strong waves of emotions
which can influence living beings not only in this but also in other worlds.
American broadcasts relayed by a powerful transmeter can be heard in India.
The flow of emotional currents from a powerful Sahasrar can move the
subtle layers of this world as well as other realms.
Coming now to the lower end, Brahamnadi which is subtle-most in
Sushumna, coils around a hexagonal blackish atom at the end of the spinal
cord. To fasten a thatched roof, holes are made in the wall and the roof is
tied with pegs by rope. In the same way by fastening Brahamnadi with the
hexagonal blackish atom, arrangement has been made to fasten the human
body with the vital energy of Pran.
In ornamental language this hexagonal atom has been described as koorma
because it resembles a tortoise. According to koorma-puran, this earth rests
on God in the form of Koorma. According to another story, the earth rests on
the hood of Sheshnag. The basis of this story is that shape of Brahamnadi
coiled around the koorma, sustaining life. If Brahamnadi abandons its base,
human life will come to an end, instantly.
The location of interlocking of Brahamnadi with koorma is known, in
spiritual language as Kundalini. It coils three and half times around the
koorma with its mouth downwards. It is for this reason that in marriage
ceremony the couple takes three and half or four rounds, with their head
bowed down, because the sound foundation of building future life of the
couple is as important as the meeting of Brahamnadi with koorma of
Kundalini is essential in uniting the body with the Pran.

49

It almost amounts to groping in darkness to understand perfectly the

importance, power and utility of Kundalini. Atom has become a great puzzle
these days for the research scholars of physics. The world has seen the
miracle of the process of breaking it in the form of devastating atom bomb.
Several of its other catastrophic and constructive aspects are yet to be
discovered. According to sir Arthur, nothing will remain impossible for
man if he happens to have full knowledge about the atomic power and its
use. He will be able to turn the Sun into pieces and transform it into dust
particles and will be able to create objects or living beings in an arbitrary
manner. He will have such mechanical devices with him, with the help of
which this earth will become a global village. Any person will be able to go
anywhere within a moment and will take from or give anything to anybody.
He will be able to talk with persons living in distant countries as if two
friends are sitting and gossiping together. When the power of an atom of
inert matter is so great and so amazing it is difficult to imagine how far more
powerful a spark of Pran (vital energy)is?
There are descriptions and evidence about Yogis possessing amazing
powers. Several tales are told about almost unbelievable divine powers
(Siddhis) of Yogis. But there is no question of any disbelief and
astonishment for persons who are familiar with the power of an inert atom as
well of sparks of Pran (vital energy). Just as scientists of every country today
are busy in doing research on physical atom, the spiritual scientists, rishis
who had realized the truth, had conducted deep research in ancient times on
living atoms in human body in seed form. Kundalini centre is the most
suitable location for breaking and uniting two living atoms and for
transforming them, because living (Chaitanya) atoms at all other places in
the body are round and smooth, whereas in Kundalini this pair clings
together. In uranium and plutonium the interlocking of atoms is in an
oblique, irregular manner so that their breaking-up is easy as compared to
the atoms of other metals. In the same manner it is easier to regulate the
movement of living atoms located in Kundalini, according to ones desire.
Research about Kundalini was, done with the same precision in ancient
times as scientists are doing these days in respect of material atoms. As a
result of these researches Rishis had discovered several secret laws of supernature which are known today as miracles of Yoga.
Madame Blavatsky had undertaken considerable research in respect of the
power of Kundalini. According to her, Kundalini is an all-pervading subtle
electric power, more powerful than physical electricity. Its movement is
oblique like that of a serpent and so its shape is said to be like a serpent. The
50

speed of light is one Lac eighty-five thousand miles per second but that of
Kundalini is three Lac forty-five miles per second. Western scientists call it
as spirit-fire or serpental-power. Sir John Woodroff has done a detailed
analysis in this respect.
Kundalini can be called a deeply buried trove of secret energies. For keeping
valuable jewellery a safe is kept hidden in an unknown place and it is locked
by several locks so that the wealth kept in it may not be touched by any
unauthorized persons. The keys of these locks are entrusted to competent
persons who alone can, in case of necessity open them and have access to its
contents.
The locks which are put on Kundalini are known as six Chakras. Human
soul reaches the Kundalini after penetrating through these Chakras. Then
alone can it master the hidden energy and derive benefit from it. Ordinarily,
Kundalini of all the people remains dormant in a helter-skelter manner. But
when it is awakened it leaves its place and seeks an entry into that lok
(realm) which is the store house of spiritual powers. There are several huge
treasures hidden under the ground since times immemorial. A serpent sits in
a serpentine pose on the mouth of these treasures and guards them. Dev-lok
also is a similar treasure on the mouth of which there is a hexagonal stone
(Koorma-shila) around which this dreadly serpent, Kundalini is coiling. This
Sarpini sits waiting for a deserving person to uncoil it. As soon as such a
person reaches close to it, instead of harming or obstructing him, it gives
way to him and its function ends here.
While throwing light on the advantages of awakening Kundalini an
experienced Sadhak has written that, by the grace of Bhagwati Kundalini
the Sadhak becomes endowed with all the virtues. He attains all the skills
and divine powers (Siddhis) without making any effort. Such a person
remains perfectly healthy and strong even when he is one hundred years old.
He devotes his life in the service of the Almighty God and ultimately leaves
his body voluntarily according to the will of God, while doing service to
humanity. A person possessing the power of Kundalini is completely
fearless and lives happily. Bhagwati showers full grace on him and he
always feels Her patronage and protection. Mothers voice, dont be afraid,
I am standing behind you, always echoes in his ears. There is no doubt that
by the influence of Kundalini, a persons vision becomes divine and he
becomes all-powerful and happy.

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Sahastradal lying scattered in the brain (brahmarandhra), also normally

remains dormant like Kundalini. Despite having such priceless equipments
and treasures, man ordinarily remains poor, weak, mean and insignificant
and leads a life like an insect by becoming slave of sensuousness and
lustfulness. But when he gets acquainted with these equipment and treasures,
knows how to use them wisely and exercises control over them, he inherits
all the competence and powers of Almighty God. Yoga-Shastras are full of
interesting and detailed discussions about the advantages of awakening
Kundalini. Everything in the world can be attained by awakening the power
of Kundalini. Nothing remains unattainable for a person so awakened.

Gayatri Sadhana As Eulogised In The Ancient

Scriptures

In the first part of Gayatri Mahavigyan (Hindi) some events were narrated
which helped the Sadhaks in their mundane and spiritual growth. Impending
catastrophes were averted. Adverse circumstances were transformed into
favourable ones. Dangers which hovered like dark clouds disappeared.
Whosoever tried to verify the veracity of those narrations found them to be
entirely true.
A period of about thirty years has passed since those miraculous events
occurred. Since then, the number of such unusual events has gone up to
lakhs. Narration of even a fraction of these miraculous happenings will
constitute a voluminous book. It has, therefore, been considered prudent not
to publish them because it will raise shallow curiosities. Such an undertaking
will be a waste of time and energy, which can be better utilised for tasks that
really matter.
Therefore, not a single event of worldly achievements has been narrated in
this book and readers are advised to consider this book alone as their guide
52

and get engaged in Sadhana with faith and devotion. Some extracts from the
ancient scriptures are, however, being given here about advantages and
importance of Gayatri Sadhana.
Advantages of Gayatri Jap
One can get a glimpse of the advantages which accrue as a result of Gayatri
Jap from the following spiritual quotations. It has specifically been enjoined
to be essential for brahmans whose main preoccupation is search and
cultivation of spiritual wisdom. A person gets such wisdom on following the
path indicated by Gayatri.
Gayatri Jap should be performed daily as it is the essence of all Vedas and
sacred Upnishads.

Sadhana of Gayatri Mantra is the essence of all Vedas. Even Gods like
Brahma medidate on and perform Jap of Gayatri at the time of twilights.
A Brahman who has mastered Gayatri alone attains salvation.

One who steadfastly performs Gayatri Jap daily with wakefulness for three
years realises Brahma and, like air, acquires the power of free and
unhindered movement.
Manu himself has stated that although a dwij may or may not perform
worship of any other deity, he will attain absolute salvation by performing
Gayatri Jap alone.
A person who exercises self-restraint, controls his senses and performs
Gayatri Jap along with Onkar and vyahrities is known as shroutriya.
Merely by offering water to the sun and performing Jap of three thousand
Gayatri Mantras at the time of twi-lights, a person becomes beloved of God.

Jap of Gayatri Mantra ten thousand times destroys all miseries and sins and
purifies a person.

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One who has mastered Gayatri and properly chants it, is revered in this
world and in heaven and ultimately attains Brahmalok (salvation)
Persons aspiring to get salvation get salvation, those aspiring to get wealth,
get wealth, persons fighting in battle get victory and those suffering from
disease get sound health by Gayatri Sadhana.

Jap of Gayatri performed in any manner destroys sins, and fulfils all desires.
It is, however, certain that the ultimate goal of self-realization is attained if it
is meditated upon systematically.
Ancient scriptures have severely condemned persons who do not know
Gayatri or, knowing it, fail to worship it. Persons who are irregular in
Sadhana on account of laziness or want of faith have been advised to be
careful and take up this excellent Sadhana.
Daily worship of Gayatri has been described in all the Vedas. A Brahman
devoid of Gayatri is doomed in all respects.

A man may know all the four Vedas very well but all his labour goes waste
if he does not realise the pre-eminence of Gayatri Mantra.
A Person who worships a Mantra other than Gayatri cannot get success even
if he takes millions of births.
A Brahman who gives up Gayatri Jap goes to hell although he may worship
Vishnu or Shiv.
One who knows Gayatri and performs Gayatri Jap is Brahman. Otherwise he
is like a Shudra although he may be well-versed in Vedas.
A person cannot become Brahman by studying Vedas and Shastras alone.
He becomes Brahman only if he worships Gayatri three times daily.
Importance of Gayatri described in Scriptures
The Vedas, Shastras, Purans proclaim the importance of Gayatri. In AtharvaVed, the following prayer has been offered to Gayatri in which it has been
described as one which gives longevity, energy (Pran Shakti), domestic
animals, fame, wealth and spiritual splendour (Brahma-tej).
54

Almighty God in the form of Vedas has stated in Atharva-Ved May

Vedmata Gayatri to whom I offer prayer, purify dwijas (brahmans) and grant
them longevity, spiritual vital energy (Pran), animals, fame, wealth and
spiritual splendour.
Just as honey, ghrit and water or milk are the essence of flowers, milk and
taste (ras) respectively, so also Gayatri Mantra is the essence of all the
Vedas.
Rishis and seers say that there is no other Mantra like Gayatri Mantra in all
the four Vedas. Ved, Yagya, dan (donation, charity), tap are not equivalent
even to a fraction of Gayatri Mantra

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Gayatri is mother of Vedas.

God Prajapati Brahma created three-stepped Gayatri as the essence of three
Vedas.
In old days Brahma weighed Gayatri against Vedas and found that Gayatri
weighed heavier than all the four Vedas put together.
Gayatri Mantra with pranav and three Vyahritis should be uttered and meditated
upon because there is no Mantra as efficacious in destroying sins as Gayatri
Mantra.
There is no greater charity than giving food and water to the needy, no greater
austerity than non-violence, no greater Jap than Gayatri jap, no Yagna greater
than chanting of Vyahritis.

Gayatri holds the hands of a person falling in the ocean of hell and rescues him.
A dwij should, therefore, perform Gayatri Jap daily with a pure heart.
Upnishads are the essence of the Vedas and Gayatri along with its three
Vyahritis is the essence of Upnishads.
Gayatri is mother of Vedas. It is destroyer of sins. There is no other Mantra
more sacred and purifying than Gayatri Mantra on this earth as well as in the
heaven.
Just as Fire is the greatest amongst all the Vedic deities, Brahman is best among
men and the spring is best of all the seasons Gayatri chhand is the best of all the
Vedic metres
.
There is no teerth like Ganga, no God like Keshav. So also there has been, is
and will be no Jap as beneficial as Gayatri Jap.

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Of all the Suktas, of Rik, Yaju, and Sam and the Divine Om (Pranav) Jap of
Gayatri Mantra is the best.

Ekakshar which means Om is Parabraham, Pranayam is great tap. However,

nothing is more purifying than Gayatri Mantra.

O Yudhistir, all persons belonging to Chandra Vansh, Surya Vansh, Raghu

Vansh and Kuru Vansh used to perform Gayatri Jap daily after proper ablution.
It is no exaggeration to state that mastery in Gayatri Sadhana is Kamdhenu for
the dwijas.
Gayatri is the sum and substance of all the Vedas. Gayatri is Brahma. Gayatri
is Almighty God.
Ganga is known as such because it incorporates all the Teerthas. It is a form of
Brahma Gayatri.
Geeta contains all the shastras. Geeta is nothing but a form of Gayatri. Gaya
teerth and Golok are also froms of Gayatri.
Whether a man is pure or impure, is sitting or walking, in whatever condition a
wise man may be, he should perform Gayatri Jap. A man gets rid of all sins by
this Jap.
By contemplating on Gayatri, sins are destroyed, heaven is attained and a man
accomplishes all the four basic pursuits viz. Dharma (righteousness), Arth
(wealth), Kam (worldly pleasures) and mokshya (salvation).
Those who worship Mantras other than Gayatri are fools like those who
abandon prepared food and wander about begging food.

Nothing is greater than Gayatri in this as well as other worlds for success in
performance of daily duties fulfilment of desires and for cultivation of tap.
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One who understands Gayatri (wich is also known as Savitri) attains heaven.
Therefore, one should, after taking bath, perform Gayatri Jap with a calm and
collected mind since it destroys all sins.

Observance of Panchsheel in Daily Life

Several kinds of Panchsheel are incorporated within the five offerings of
Bali-veshya. Members of the family should be explained their significance
so that they may have knowledge about the five sacred duties linked with
various aspects of human life, which itself is a lifelong Yagya.

Panchsheel for physical well-being are:

(1) Satvik and limited food.
(2) Adequate use of pure water.
(3) Deep breathing in open air.
(4) Honest labour. and
(5) care-free rest at night.

Panchsheel for wellbeing of mental health are:

(1) Sportsman - like spirit,
(2) Sense of humour,
(3) Self-control,
(4) Sanctity of work and
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(5) Self-contentment and enthusiasm.

Social Panchsheel are:

(1) Honesty;
(2) Honest and sincere discharge of responsibilities as a citizen;
(3) Gentle polite and sweet behaviour,
(4) Credibility and
(5) Willing and glad cooperation.

Family Panchsheel are:

(1) Feelings of cooperation, gratefulness and service towards elders,

(2) Affection for and cooperation with youngsters,
(3) open-hearted love between the spouses
(4) Nobility of character as true prosperity;
(5) To have minimum number of children.

Religious Panchsheel are:

(1) Unity
(2) Equality
59

(3) Co-existence
(4) Tolerance; and
(5) Deep devotion towards the Divine.

Spiritual Panchsheel are:

(1) Unflinching faith in divine law of sowing and reaping;
(2) Self-reliance;
(3) Living simple life of an average citizen and utilizing the balance of
resources for philanthropic purposes;
(4) Keen aspiration for Jeewan Sadhana; and
(5) Loving kindness towards all creation.

All these Panchsheels and duties should be duly discussed and evaluated so
that members of the family could understand the significance of Baliveshya
towards achieving inner refinement while functioning in the work in a-day
life.

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Shat Chakras in the Body

61

SHAT CHAKRAS
There are six gates on the way leading to the origin of Kundalini power. Or,
it may be said that this path is locked by six locks. Human soul can reach the
inner energy centres by opening these gates or locks. These six obstructions
are called Shat-Chakras in spiritual language.
These six Chakras are related to Brahamnadi which is one of the three nadis
situated in the inner-most part of the Sushumna. They can also be compared
to lotus flowers strung into the thread of a garland. Readers will be able to
see in the picture on the next page where a particular chakra is located in the
body. Mooladhar chakra lies in the genital region; Swadhisthan chakra in the
portion between the navel and the pubic region; Manipur chakra in the
umbilicus region; Anahat chakra near the heart; Vishudakhya chakra near
the neck; Agyachakra in the middle of both the eye-brows; and above all lies
Sahasrar.
Sushumna and three nadis encased within it namely; Vajra, chitrani and
brahmnadi are so subtle that they can not be seen by naked eye. The
corresponding Chakras are still more subtle. Any attempt to operate upon the
body to locate shat chakras will be ridiculous and futile because the power of
vision of human eye is very much limited. Sound waves, atoms of air, germs
of diseases cannot be seen by the naked eye, still their existence cannot be
denied. Yogis have seen these Chakras by their yogic vision and have gained
miraculous knowledge, insights and powers through investigations of the
inner being of man. They have given a well-organized scientific description
of such investigations and presented it before those who are interested in the
subject.
Shat Chakras are like subtle knots (granthis) formed in the passage of
Brahamnadi. When a Sadhak concentrates his mind on these Chakras he has
unusual experiences of subtle conditions prevailing there. These knots
(granthis) are not circular but angular like petals of a flower. These petals
are called padma-dal. They are like a bunch of fibres.

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These Chakras are of different hues because of energies of varying potencies

of elements dominant in different granthis. This also affects the quantity and
colour of the blood of that region. The colour changes to pink, blue, red and
smoky according to the prominence of the elements of earth, water, fire, air
and sky, respectively. The mixture of these elements changes the colour of
each chakra.
When a weevil (wood-worm) cuts through wood, the cut portion assumes
different shapes. When vital breath (Pran-vayu) passes through these
Chakras, its passage becomes slightly zig-zaged according to the position of
the Granthi. It takes different shapes similar to the shape of some letters of
devnagri script and they are called letters of that particular chakra.
In a fast flowing river, whirlpools of different shapes are formed at several
points. When the vital breath of Sushumna flows rapidly through these
Chakras, subtle whirlpools are formed, which are quadrangular, triangular,
hexagonal, circular, semi-circular and phallus-like in shape. The flame of
rising fire is thick at the bottom and thin at the top. Thus an irregular triangle
is formed when the Chakras are pierced. Different shapes are thus formed by
the flow of vital breath, These are known as yantras of Chakras.
Human body is formed of five basic elements of earth, water, fire, air and
ether. Different parts of the body are constituted and governed by mixture of
these elements in varying proportions. If the proportion of a particular
element increases or a decrease beyond what is required, that part of the
body becomes diseased. Existence of elements in requisite proportion at a
relevant location is considered to be a sign of good health. There
is prominence of one element in each chakra. It is known as the element of
that chakra.
When vital breath passes through the hollow Brahma-nadi and it collides
with the holes of the Chakras, sound similar to one produced by playing of a
flute, emanates. Sounds like Sa, re, ga, ma flow through the holes of the
Chakras and they are audible as Yna h, lna h, rna hU, hna hU, Om
etc. These are known as seeds of these Chakras.
There is difference in the speed of breath in different Chakras. The pulse of
persons having the element of vat, pitta or kaf in prominence moves with the
speed of pigeon, frog, serpent or cock etc., and physicians (vaidyas)
diagnose and treat accordingly. Due to mixture of different elements, zigzag
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passage, whirlpools and coordination of seeds etc., a specific speed is

noticed in every chakra on account of blood circulation and breathing. This
speed is sluggish like that of an elephant or a crocodile, or fast as that of a
deer or a frog in different Chakras. These speeds are named after the
particular animals, which are mounts (vahans) of different Chakras.
Different divine energies lie dormant within these Chakras. Creation,
maintenance, destruction, knowledge, prosperity, strength, etc. have been
regarded as energies of specific deities. In every chakra there are hot
masculine as well as cold feminine elements because without the unoin of
these two elements there can be no movement or life. These powers are
known as the god or goddess of the particular chakra.
The five elements have their own characteristics. Smell, flavour, form touch
and sound are characteristics of earth, water, fire, air and ether respectively.
In accordance with the prominence of the element concerned its
characteristic predominates in each chakra. These are known characteristics
of Chakras.
The subtle energy of these Chakras flow in the entire body but it is mainly
related to one organ of sense and one organ of action. The symptoms of
awakening of these Chakras are immediately reflected in these organs. On
account of such relationship that particular organ is categorized as the organ
of that chakra.
Peculiar names of divine energies viz. Dakini, rakini, shakini, hakini, etc.,
could be misunderstood to be something like ghost, witch etc., but this is not
so. Right from mouth to navel there is a circular chain of letters from aa to
ha. The beads of this chain are known as matrikas. On their basis rishis have
formulated letters of the alphabet. The Matrika, by which the deity of a
chakra is linked, is known as divine energy of that deity. Letters da, ra, la,
ka, sha have been prefixed to the word kini signifying matrikas and thus
the words Dakini, rakini etc., have been formulated, which are all names of
divine powers. After understanding these definitions, it will be easy for the
readers to understand the following introductory information about the six
Chakras.

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MULADHARA CHAKRA
ROOT CHAKRA (also known as "MULADHARA")
Muladhara is the first point in the spiritual evolution of man, where one
leaves animal consciousness and starts to become a real human being. It has
control over the entire range of excretory and sexual functions in man.
Balancing muladhara gives energy to the physical body, controls fear,
increases overall health and helps in grounding.
The Root chakra or the muladhara is the foundation of the chakra system.
Kundalini power is lying dormant in this chakra and it is is this chakra from
which the impulses of the life force rises and crossing the rest six chakras
reaches upto sahasrara (Crown chakra) and one experiences the widest
expansion of his awareness.
It seems to be a irony that this earthiest and most basic of all chakras guides
us to the highest consciousness.
MEANING:
The Sanskrit word Mulameans 'root' or 'foundation' and that is precisely
what this chakra is.
It is the seat of kundalini power.This great potential is said to be lying
dormant in the form of a coiled serpent. When aroused, kundalini passes
through sushumna nadi in the spinal chord and move upto sahasrara where
the ultimate experience of enlightenment occurs.
The Loaction Point:
The Root chakra in male body is loacted slightly inside the perineum, at the
mid point between the scrotum and the anus. And in the females, it lies on
the posterior side of cervix.
In both male and female bodies, there is a vestigial gland at the muladhara
chakra which resembles a 'knot'.
Many people feel shy and hesitant of accepting that kundalini resides in root
chakra and claim it to be in manipura chakra, because they do not want to
associate this divine power with the unholy sexual system.

65

However, also according to scientists, this tiny gland in root chakra contains
a lot of energy and also according to yogis, many psychic and spiritual
experiences originates from muladhara chakra.
Just because muladhara is situated in the sexual region does not mean that it
is a impure center.

SYMBOL:
The Root chakra is symbolized by a four petalled lotus. On each petal is a
letter namely: vam, sham, sam and sham. You can see how these letters look
like in the following symbol.

Muladhara is the direct switch to awaken the Third eye or ajna chakra. It is
the chief centre of apana, one of the five pranas.
By meditating on muladhara chakra, you will become a master speaker,
and a perfectionist in all kind of learnings. you will become ever free
from all kinds of diseases and remain cheerful all the time.
This Root chakra is the point from where the three psychic channels or nadis
emerge i.e. ida, pingla and sushumna. Ida emerges from the left side, pingla
from right side and sushumna from the centre.
When the forces of ida and pingla are completely balanced by the practices
of Hatha yoga, particularly pranayamas, an awakening is sparked off here

66

which arouses the dormant kundalini. Therefore practices of pranayama are

considered to be of great importance in kundalini yoga.
The Root chakra is of great importance, firstly becuase it is the seat of
kundalini power and secondly it is also the seat of all sensual passions
i.e.tamas. All the guilt, every complex and every agony has its root here.
Physiologically, this chakra is related to the excretory, urinary, sexual and
reproductive organs.
Our life, desires, actions and achievements are controlled by the sexual
desires, and whatever we do in life is an expression of of our sexual urge
in one way or other. Dr. SIGMUND FREUD has also emphasized this
point that our selection of food, clothing, friends etc. are influenced by
our sexual awareness.
Therefore it is very important for everybody to awaken this chakra and get
out of this sexual slavery.
Sexual fulfilment and sexual frustrations control our life. If sexual urges are
removed from your life, everything will change. Often we react to sexual life
on account of bitter experiences and we vow not to take same path again but
we again does the same thing.
You become fed up and on account of that you say "NO MORE". But this is
not the permanent solution , it is only a reaction and not the permanent
structure of mind.
Unless the Root chakra is purified, its corresponding centre in brain will
always pull your consciousness back to sexual satisfaction. You can live the
same life as you do live today, but you can make it much better.
Sexual relationships are not a sin, but you should awaken your
consciousness and purpose of the whole act must be transformed. And this
happens only when muladhara awakens.
So those who do normal sexual act must awaken muladhara chakra first.
Also through sexual act, a female can awaken her muladhara and
swadhisthana chakra if her partner is a yogi. Generally for awakening these
chakras in male body, you will have to practise kriya yoga and techniques
such as 'Vajroli'.
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Here I should also tell you one important thing, this is a great misconception
that a yogi should renounce sex, but this is wrong idea. If you think that to
be a yogi you should give up sex, why don't you give up eating and sleeping
also??
The greatest mistake which mankind has been making since thousands of
years is that man has been fighting with himself. You want to renounce sex
but you are not able to do so, hence it is important that your muladhara
should awaken first so that you can keep your mind free.

EXPERIENCES:
In the initial stages of root chakra awakening, many people feel power rising
from root chakra to the brain and they confuse it with the kundalini
awakening. This is not kundalini awakening, it is a release of pranic force
orprana which rises the pingala nadi and partially purifies the chakras.
When root chakra awakens, a variety of experiences are felt by the
practitioner. The first thing which they feel is the levitation of the astral or
subtle body, you will feel that your body is floating up in the air but this is
limited to the astral body and mental dimensions and is different from what
is generally called levitation- the displacement of physical body.
Apart from this, you will also experience sometimes the psychic
phenomenas like clairvoyance and clairaudience.
Other experience includes the feeling of heat in the coccyx area and a
creeping sensation like something moving up the spinal chord.
In most cases, when the power reaches the manipura or solar plexus, it starts
descending down to muladhara, though usually you will feel energy reaching
upto your brain but actually a very small portion of energy ascends upto
brain.
Repeated persistent efforts are for raising the kundalini further but once
kundalini passes solar plexus, such problems are rarely encountered again.

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When kundalini ascends from muladhara to sacral or swadhisthana chakra,

this is most crucial time for an aspirant because all of his suppressed
emotions express themselves in this period.
Sometimes you will feel jolly and happy, and at the next moment you will
become sad and unhappy. Sometimes you will become too much talktive for
the whole day but then for next many days you will feel like to remain silent.
At this stage of awakening, you will develop the fond of singing.
In such crucial stages, you will require a mentor or guru who can give you
the proper guidance to cope up with these experiences and also he will also
accelerate your spiritual evolution.
In case you don't find a human guru, you should refer to the authentic
text available which can guide you through this process of muladhara
awakening.
Muladhara is one of the most important and exciting, but also disturbing of
the psychic centers to be awakened. Therefore it is suggested to awaken The
Third eye or ajna chakra first beacuse the awakening of ajna makes the
whole process of muladhara awakening less disturbing and traumatic.

SWADISTHANA CHAKRA
SACRAL CHAKRA (also known as "SWADHISTHANA")
Its balancing is associated with sexual vitality, physical power and fertility.
It controls the unconscious mind in man.
The Sacral chakra is situated very near to The Root Chakra i.e Muladhara. It
is the second chakra in the series of seven psychic centres and it is also
responsible for the awakening of kundalini power in the Root Chakra.
MEANING:
The Sanskrit word for Sacral Chakra is Swadhisthana which is further
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divisible into Swa meaning "one's own" and Adhisthana meaning "the place
of residence", and this what this chakra actually is. It is the place where all
human mental impressions or Samkaras are stored.
The Location Point:
Sacral chakra is situated at the base of spinal chord, at the level of coccyx or
tailbone. It is very close to muladhara chakra.
Svadhisthana chakra is associated with the reproductive and urinary systems
in the physical body.
SYMBOL:
Svadhisthana chkara is symbolized by a six petaled orange colored lotus. On
each petal there is letter: bam, bham, mam, yam, ram and lam.
Within the pericarp of the lotus, a white crescent moon is there which the
symbol of water is. Water is the element of the svadhisthana chakra.Vam,
which is written inside the lotus, is the mantra of the Sacral chakra.

Second day of lunar fortnight (chandrakar), organ of sense-tongue, organ of

action-phallus; result of meditation-destruction of perversions like vanity,
eradication of illusion and attachments, creative power.

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It is said that if you meditate on this chakra, you will get rid of your internal
enemies i.e lust, anger, greed etc.
Svadhisthana is considered to be storehouse of all mental impressions and its
counterpart in the brain is unconscious mind.
It is believed that all karmas, the past lives, the previous experiences and the
greater dimensions of the human personality that is unconscious is
symbolized by this Svadhisthana Chakra.
According to science, each and every experience, perception and association
is recorded. If you have a fight or quarrel with somebody, that leaves a
strong impression but if happen to pass someone on the path, look at him
and walk on, this is also registered.
Such observation are not analyzed but simply filed away in some layer of
mind. All these unnoticed karmas and experiences which are stored
automatically by our consciousness, forms the total unconscious.
Generally in kundalini awakening process, Sacral chakra is regarded as a
hindrance in the sense that these karmas lying embedded in the
unconscious do not allow kundalini to pass through and after the initial
awakening, kundalini goes to dormancy again and again.
When svadhisthana awakens, it presents many difficulties for the aspirant as
whole of his unconscious material explodes in front of him. These karmas
are beyond the range of analysis and they have practically no form but they
constitute a great force.
It is just like the situation that if you put several objects in a water tank and
then open that tank after five years, you will not find anything same as you
put in the tank though all the objects are present there but in a new form.
Therefore due to this reason many spiritual aspirant avoid to enter this stage
of kundalini awakening process, but it is absolutely necessary for his
spiritual evolution.
During this stage, you must have a spiritual guide or guru who knows
how to avoid all the pitfalls of this area of awakening.

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EXPERIENCES:
When kundalini is residing in Sacral chakra, all the negative and positive
impressions of your unconscious mind express themselves. During this
stage, you may be angry, afraid or full of sexual fantasies or you may also
experience lethargy, dullness and depression.
The tendency to procrastinate is very strong and you just want to sleep and
sleep.If you are fearless and strong will-powered, only then you can
survive through the temptation of this stage of awakening. Every great
person and saint has had to undergo this peculiar experience.
If one fluctuates from his path of sadhana even slightly, kundalini will return
to muladhara i.e Root chakra and the real awakening will become very
difficult.
Therefore in the initial stages of sadhana, one should have superior quality
of detachment (Vairagya). It should not be mere renunciation of the sensual
pleasures because if even after leaving all sensual pleasures, their taste
remains in mind then this detachment is of no use.
If aspirant understands the truth that desires can never be satisfied in one
lifetime, not even in thousands of lifetimes, the kundalini can pass through
sacral chakra relatively fast and will reach solar plexus chakra safely.
Sexual desires and fantasies can manifest in the aspirant at any stage of
evolution but they are expressed very acutely and clearly when the kundalini
is in Sacral Chakra.
Here one thing I should tell you, that sexual awareness never really dies,
even when the aspirant is at the highest level of consciousness because sex is
also a form of the primal energy that is present all around us and universal in
nature.
However, when the kundalini is in svadhisthana, this sexual awareness is in
very disturbed state whereas in higher stages of evolution it is in seed form.
After all what is the devotion or 'bhakti'?? They are sublimated pure form of
sexual energy.
According to the tantric texts, there are many psychic powers gained through
the awakening of Sacral Chakra which includes: Fearlessness from water,
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gaining of intuitive knowledge, knowledge of astral entities and the ability to

taste anything.
The net sum up is that awakening of kundalini power is not a difficult
task, but getting through Sacral Chakra is. Therefore you must purify
background of your psycho-emotional life before entering into this
phase of your spiritual evolution.

MANIPURA CHAKRA
SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA (also known as "MANIPURA")
It is associated with calming emotions and frustration, easing tension and
helping to better utilize intuition. It controls the entire processes of digestion,
assimilation and temperature regulation in the body.
The Solar Plexus chakra or Manipura is a very important centre in the
process of kundalini awakening. It is the centre of Dynamism, energy,
willpower and accomplishments.

It is often compared with the power of Sun because as Sun continually

radiates energy to the planets and is responsible for life on earth, in the same
way the Solar plexus chakra radiates and distribute prana or the life force to
whole human framework and is responsible for various activities of organs
and other processes of life.
MEANING:
Manipura is
derived
from
two
words Mani meaning
'jewel'
and pura meaning 'city'. Therefore literally Manipura means 'city of jewels'.
Now since this chakra is the source of the 'vital force' in the body, if this
chakra does not function properly, then you will feel lifeless and devoid of
energy.You will be hindered by poor health, lack of motivation and
commitment, and depression in life.
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Therefore awakening of Solar plexus is necessary for all those who wants to
enjoy life more fully.
The
Location
Point:
The Solar Plexus chakra is situated in the spinal chord directly behind the
navel. Physiologically, this chakra is related to digestive system and
regulates heat in the body.
SYMBOL:
The Manipura chakra is symbolized by a ten petalled lotus. On each petal
one of the ten letters: pham, dam, dham, nam, tam, tham, dam, dham, nam,
pam is inscribed.

In the centre of the lotus is the region of fire, symbolized by the triangle.
And within the triangle Ram is written, which is the beeja mantra of the
manipura chakra.
By meditating on solar plexus chakra, you will gain knowledge of the entire
physical system, your body will become disease-free. And once your
kundalini reaches Manipura, your consciousness will not fall back into the
lower chakras.
According to Buddhist tradition and also according to many tantric texts, the
real awakening of kundalini starts from Solar Plexus Chakra as they consider
Sacral and root chakra as the higher realms of the animal life whereas the
higher man consciousness predominates from manipura onwards.
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This is also because of the reason that manipura onwards, there is no danger
of downfall of consciousness. Up to this point kundalini may rise and fall
several times, but awakening of manipura confirms the real awakening.
It is said that in sincere aspirants, kundalini is mostly in Solar plexus
chakra. If you are exposed to spiritual life, practise yoga and have a
strong desire to find a guru, side by side with the work you are doing, it
means kundalini is not in muladhara, it is in Manipura or one of the
higher centres.
As i have already told you on this site, that there are five parts of prana i.e.
The life force, the first two of the Five Pranas are 'prana' and 'apana'.
The prana moves up and down in the region between navel and throat
while apana flows up and down between perinium and navel. This
movement of prana can be experienced by you also through relaxed
breath awareness in the psychic passage between throat and navel.
With the inspiration. Prana moves up from navel to throat and with
exhalation, it moves down from throat to navel.
Generally, 'prana'and 'apana' functions seperately but when the manipura
chakra awakens, these prana and apana gets united in the manipura chakra.
Awakening of kundalini in the Solar plexus takes place like a blast, as the
prana and the redirected apana meet in the navel region. It is the like the
collision of two great forces in the Solar plexus region.
EXPERIENCES:
The evolution of human consciousness takes place through seven planes in
the form of seven chakras.
When kundalini is in Root or Sacral chakra, these higher planes of
consciousness cannot be seen by the aspirant, but when aspirant reaches the
Manipura chakra, he becomes able to experience these planes.
He is able to visualize the infinite state of consciousness and its spiritual
perspective.

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In the face of this vision, all his views and opinions completely changes. The
personal prejudices, complexes are gone away and an endless beauty and
perfection of the higher worlds dawn within his consciousness.
As long as the evolution is in the planes of Sacral and Root Chakra, you will
have mentaland emotional problems and you will see the world
correspondingly but when you will reach manipura, you will start seeing the
world with noble ideas and greater perspective.
That is why, psychic powers gained by Muladhara and Sacral chakra
are dominated by dark aspect of the lower mind but powers gained
through Solar plexus chakra are really benevolent and compassionate.
The different powers gained by awakening Solar Plexus Chakra are the
ability to create and destroy, self-defence, the knowlwdge of hidden
treasures, fearlessness from fire, freedom from diseases and the power to
withdraw energy to sahasrara.

ANAHATA CHAKRA
HEART CHAKRA (also known as "ANAHATA")
Its balancing is important for the circulatory system, heart and thymus. It
also affects spiritual love, compassion and universal oneness. It corresponds
to the cardiac nerves, and controls the functions of the heart, the lungs, the
diaphragm and other organs in this region of the body.
he Heart Chakra is of great importance in kundalini yoga as kundalini stays
in this chakra for a long time. When you reaches anahata chakra only
thenyou become a yogi. Untill then, when you are in muladhara, Sacral or
Solar Plexus chakra, you are a Yoga practitioner.
When you reach the heart chakra, you are completely established in yogic
consciousness and you depend solely upon the power of your own
consciousness, rather than anything external or fate.
MEANING:
The literal sense of word "anahata" is unstruck or unbeaten.

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This centre is known as such because it is related to heart which beats or

vibrate with constant unbroken rythm continuously.
The Location Point:
The heart chakra is situated on the inner wall of spinal chord directly behind
the centre of chest i.e in the region of heart.
Although this chakra is known as the heart chakra, it should not be confused
with the biological heart. Although the physiological counterpart of this
chakra is the cardiac plexus nerves but their nature is totally different from
its physiological dimension.
Anahata chakra is a very delicate center and it is related to that part of brain
which is responsible for all types of creative arts like painting, dancing,
singing, poetry etc.
SYMBOL:
Anahata is symbolized by a twelve petalled lotus and on each petal one the
letters: kam, kham, gam, gham, ngam, cham, chham, jam, jham, nyam, tam,
tham is inscribed.

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The inner region is hexagonal in shape which represents the air element.
This region is made up of two interlaced triangles which represents the
union of the consciousness and creativity.
Within this, the beeja mantra of anahata chakra is written i.e yam.
It is said that if you meditate on anahata, you will become a excellent yogi,
exceptionally wise and will be full of noble deeds. You can use your mind
with intense concentration.
As long as your consciousness in centred in,lowr chakras like muladhara,
swadhisthana or manipura chakra, you will remain completely dependent on
what is already enjoined for you i.e your fate or destiny. The lower chakras
belong to empirical world of body, mind and sense.
But once you reach anahata chakra, you will become beyond these empirical
dimensions. Then you will realize that fate is of course real, but one can go
totally beyond what it dictates. You will become the master of your own
destiny.
Wish Fulfilment is another trait of awakened Heart chakra. According to
tantras, at the root of anahata chakra there is a "Wish fulfilling tree", also
known as kalpa taru. When this tree starts to fructify, whatever you thinks or
wish comes true.
Ordinarily we have many wishes but they are generally a sort of
daydreaming. However, if they all starts turning into realities, we would
quickly start questioning that whether we want our wishes fulfilled at all
because most people rely on their fate rather than creating their own destiny.
To illustrate this, I will quote one story here:
Once a traveller was sitting underneath a tree. He was feeling very tired and
wanted to have a drink. So he thought of a clear stream, and immediately he
heard the trickle of water flowing beside him. After drinking some water, he
thought he would like to have a little food to satisfy his hunger, and that
appeared beside him also. Then, as he was feeling tired and thought he
would like to rest, there appeared before him a nice bed, and so he went to
sleep. The foolish man did not know that he had come to rest beneath the
wish fulfilling tree. In the evening when he awoke, the sun had already set
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and night had fallen. He got up and the thought came to his mind: 'Oh, it is
terribly dark, perhaps the tigers will come and eat me', and so they did.
This is what happens to anyone who awakens this wish fulfilling capacity
without proper preparation. If you awaken you heart chakra but you do not
know the power of your mind, or you posses negative and pessimistic
attitude and other negative mental tendencies, then you will fall prey to
them.
If this happens, there is a risk that your consciousness will fall back from
anahata chakra and once you fall from anahata chakra, there is hardly any
chance of making a second start.
Therefore you should always remain alert about our thoughts and
perceptions. When whatever you wish becomes true, you will be very happy
but at the same time you should also keep analyzing you attitude toward
others and yourself.
You have to be careful of your doubts, for instance, if you start doubting that
"Perhaps I am having appendictis or gall bladder disease", than this thought
will create a lot of problem for you. Similarly if you think "My friend has
not contacted me, he must have had an accident", then may be your friend
will actually meet an accident.
When kundalini is dormant, these type of thoughts have no energy, but
once kundalini awakens and reaches anahata chakra, these thoughts
starts turning into realities.
Therefore firstly, you should change your entire way of thinking if you are
going to awaken Heart chakra. You must be extremely optimistic and full of
hope and you should never fall into the negativities of your mind. Never be
neagtive about any situation, no matter whatever it may be.
When anahata awakens, a feeling of unconditional and universal love for all
will start developing in you.
Generally, every type of love in contaminated with some sort of selfishness,
even the love for God, because you are expecting something from him.
Perhaps in this world, the love with minimum selfishness isMother's Love.

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But when heart chakra opens, all your actions becomes unselfish and
altruistic and you develop spiritual compassion. Your love becomes free of
expectations.
During Heart chakra awakening, you may experience pain in chest and
irregular functioning of heart, such as accelerated pulse. However rather
than feeling ill, you will feel healthy and will require less sleep.
You will attain complete emotional balance and you will start listening the
sounds coming from other realms.
You may become a great poet or any other type of artist. You will develop
clairvoyant/ clairaudience and psychokinetic ability, and you will be able to
conquer anyone by the power of your love.
With the awakening of Heart chakra, you will develop detachment to the
worldly things and you mind will become more relaxed, free and peaceful.

VISHUDDI CHAKRA
THROAT CHAKRA (also known as "VISHUDDI")
It is important for the speech and communication areas of the brain. It
controls the thyroid complex and also some systems of articulation, the
upper palate and the epiglottis.
The Throat chakra is also known as the 'the purification center'. Here the
purification of all positive and negative samskaras takes place. It is the
center where one feels those experiences which lead to the greater
understanding of the highest realm of consciousness.
The Location Point:
The Throat chakra is situated in the cervix plexus which is directly behind
the throat pit. The physiological counterparts of Vishudhi chakra are
pharyngeal and laryngeal nerve plexi.

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When the Vishudhi chakra opens, you will experience a state of openness in
which you will discarding all the unpleasant aspects of life and will only the
pleasant side.
This chakra is generally regarded as insignificant in the scheme of kundalini
yoga, and people pay more attention to Root, Sacral, Heart and Third eye
chakra. This is a great mistake because this chakra also has the same
importance as others.
SYMBOL:
Throat chakra is represented by a sixteen petalled lotus which is said to be
purple in colour. On each petal, one the sanskrit vowels is inscribed: am,
aam, im, eem, um, oom, rim, reem, lrim, lreem, em, aim, om, aum, am, ah.
Within the lotus, there is a pure white circle which represents the element
of ether or Akasha. This element region is the gateway to liberation for one
whose senses are purified.
Within this moon like circle, the beeja mantra of the Vishudhi chakra is
written which is ham.

When you meditate on this chakra, you will become free from all tensions
and will enjoy uninterrupted peace of mind. You will become free from all
diseases and sorrow. You will feel blissed all the time.

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MEANING:
The sanskrit word 'Vishudhi' is derived from another sanskrit
word Shuddhiwhich means 'to purify' and in this chakra, purification of all
opposite samskaras takes place.
In the tantric scriptures, there is a reference for a 'bindu' which is situated at
the back of head and during the process of kundalini awakening, this bindu
secrets a vital fluid known as nectar.
Bindu may be defined as the center or passage or the way through
which one go to sahasrara or the Crown chakra.
This divine fluid is known by different names in different religious contexts
like in English, it is known as "ambrosia" i.e. the nectar of Gods. Sometimes
it is called as "amrit"- the nectar of immortality. In Vedas, it is referred to as
"Soma".
Between bindu and the Throat chakta, there is another center known
aslalana chakra and it is very closely related to Vishudhi chakra.
When the nectar is produced in bindu, it flows down and get stored in the
lalana chakra.
This divine fluid has dual nature; it can act as both nectar as well as poison.
Upto lalana chakra, it remain undifferentiated, neither poison nor nectar.
As long as the throat chakra is inactive, this fluid flows down from lalana
chakra to be consumed on the fire of Solar plexus chakra, resulting in the
processes of decay, degeneration and finally death of the body's tissues.
However, by certain practices such as 'Khechari Mudra', the ambrosia is
made to pass through Vishudhi chakra which is a purifying center. When
your Vishudhi chakra is awakened, the nectar and poison gets separated and
the poison is discarded whereas the nectar is retained.
With the awakening of the throat chakra, not only the internal poisons are
nullified but also the external poisons can be neutralized and rendered
ineffective. This is a siddhi or power associated with this chakra.
Many yogis in India possesed this power. It depends on the awakening of the
throat chakra and the bindu in the brain.
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When the Vishudhi chakra opens, you will become able to receive the
thought vibrations from other people's mind. This actually happens
through another center in the body which is closely related to Vishudhi
chakra. It actually behaves like a transistor radio which is tuned by the yogi
enabling him to receive the thoughts and feelings of the persons both nearby
and far away.
There is a nerve associated with the throat chakra which in Sanskrit known
as kurma nadi i.e. the 'tortoise nadi'. When this nadi starts functioning, you
will become able to completely control your desire of food and
drink. This capability has been demonstrated by many yogis in India in the
past.
Generally, when humans reach their second or third decade of life, the rate
of degeneration of cells surpasses the rate of generation and from this point,
the decay, old age, disease and death come to the fore in man's experience.
When the throat chakra is awakened, a process of rejuvenation startswhich
balances this ongoing aging process.
The hearing sense becomes very sharp with the awakening of Vishudhi
chakra.
The others powers gained through awakening of Throat chakra are
imperishability, complete knowledge of scriptures and the whole knowledge
of present, past and future.

AJNA CHAKRA
THIRD EYE CHAKRA (also known as "AJNA")
It helps in psychic perception and balances the pineal gland. It serves as a
switch to different parts of the brain, once it is opened different parts of
brain can be explored and we can use our brain power to a higher extent.

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The third eye chakra is the point of meeting of the three main nadis - ida,
pingla and sushumna. Here these three nadis merge into one stream of
consciousness and flow upto sahasrara or the crown chakra.
When the mind is concentrated on this conjunction of these three nadis, a
transformation of the individual consciousness takes place and ego is
removed. As long as one has ego, he is aware of dualities and he cannot
enter the samadhi because as long as you remember yourself, you cannot get
out of yourself.
There is certain problem with the awakening of the other chakras as their
awakening leads to many experiences which you cannot understand and
which may be both good and bad, positive and negative.
Only those who are equipped with the reason and understanding can cope up
with the awakening of these chakras, therefore it is best to have a purified
mind before you start awakening and manifesting the great forces.
And mind becomes purified and evolved only when third eye chakra is
awakened.
MEANING:
The word ajna comes from the Sanskrit root which means 'to know, to obey
and to follow'. Literally ajna means 'command' or 'the monitoring center'.
It is also called as 'the eye of intuition' and it is the gateway to astral and
the psychic dimension of the consciousness, and there it is also known as
"the third eye".
Among Indians, it is also known as the divya chakshu (the divine eye) orthe
eye of knowledge because it is the channel through which a spiritual aspirant
receives revelations and insight of the higher world of consciousness.
However in most of us, this "inner eye" remains closed the though we see
and observe the events of the outer world, we cannot have the knowledge
and understanding of the truth and the deeper layers of human existence.
The Location Point:

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The third eye chakra is located in the brain, directly behind the eyebrow
center at the top of spinal chord i.e at the medulla oblongata.
It is very hard to feel the exact location point of ajna chakra, therefore it is
suggested that you should concentrate at the mid-eyebrow centeras these
two centers are are directly connected.
Here I should also tell you that the pineal gland is the physical concomitant
of the third eye chakra and the pituitary gland of the crown chakra. Just as
these two glands are intimately connected in physical body, so are the third
eye and crown chakra in the subtle body.
SYMBOL:
Ajna chakra is symbolized by a two petalled lotus. On the left petal is the
letter ham which represents the moon or the ida nadi and on the right petal is
the letter ksham which represents sun or the pingla nadi.

Within the lotus is a perfectly round circle that symbolizes the shoonya or
the void i.e the state completely devoid of ego. In this circle the
symbolOm is written. 'Om' is the mantra and the symbol of ajna chakra.
Experiences:
The ajna chakra is directly related to mind. When this chakra awakens, the
mind is able to gain information by subtle means, rather than by the
experiences felt by the sense organs. The mind percieves knowledge directly
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via a sixth or intuitive sense, which comes into operation as ajna chakra
awakens.
According to scriptures, if you awaken the third eye, you can enter the
another's body at your will and you will become all-knowing and all-seeing.
You will realize the unity with the supreme power (Brahaman) and will
acquire many siddhis (psychic powers).
Different results acquired by meditating on various centres are
collectively realized by mediating on this centre alone.
Ajna is essentially the chakra of mind. Whenever you concentrate on any
external object or on root chakra (muladhara), sacral chakra (Swadhisthana),
solar plexus chakra (manipura) etc., ajna is affected, sometimes mildly.
Sometimes powerfully, depending on your degree of concentration.
When you develop ajna, you can gain knowledge without the aid of
senses. Generally, all knowledge that we have gained is through the
information that senses conducts to the brain, and a process of logic and
intellect takes place in frontal brain.
However, the smaller brain where the ajna chakra is located has the power to
gain knowledge directly without the help of sense organs.
If it is a cloudy day, then you know that it is going to rain through your
logic. But if there are no clouds and even then, you know that it is going to
rain through your intuition, then the ajna chakra is functioning.
To awaken third eye chakra requires sadhana, discipline, firm belief and
persistent effort. With our present state of mind, it is impossible to know that
how to reach sahasrara or the crown chakra which is the ultimate aim of a
spiritual aspirant. But once ajna chakra starts operating, you will develop
superior perception and the pathway to reach sahasrara will become clear to
you.

SAHASRARA
CROWN CHAKRA (also known as "SAHASRARA")
It gives vitality to the cerebrum and affects the development of psychic
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abilities. It is the supreme chakra and final destination of kundalini energy.It

is the seat of higher awareness. Physically it is correlated to pituitary gland
which controls every other gland in the body
The Crown chakra which in Sanskrit is known as "Sahasrara" is not a chakra
as it is usually considered as. Chakras are within the realm of the psyche and
the consciousness evolves at different levels according to the chakra which
is active.
Infact in the Hindu scriptures, we often come across the term "Shat-chakra"
which means Six chakras. That means the concept of chakras includes the
chief six chakras within the human realm of consciousness which are The
Root Chakra, Sacral Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra, Heart Chakra, Throat
chakra and The Third eye Chakra.
Above all these we have Sahasrara Chakra which is the chief of all the
Chakras. All the Chakras have a intimate connection with this centre. Hence
this is not included as one among the Shat-Chakras. This is situated above
all the Chakras.
The ultimate aim of any type of yoga viz hatha yoga, bhakti yoga, mantra
yoga etc. is to awaken kundalini power. The awakening of the kundalini is
complete only when the kundalini meets the crown chakra.
The word "Sahasrara" means 'one thousand' which denotes that this center
has 1000 petals. There are different opinions about the number of petals but
it is sufficient to know that innumerable nadis originates from this center.
It also tells about the importance of this center. The word 'sahasrara' implies
that its magnitude and significance is vast, infact unlimited.

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As in the case of other Chakras, the vibrations that are made by the Yoga
Nadis are represented by the Sanskrit letters inscribed on the petals. All the
50 letters of the Sanskrit alphabet are repeated here again and again on all
petals. The corresponding centre in the physical body is in the brain.
A Great Experience! Individual Self Dies!
When the kundalini Shakti meets the crown chakra, it leads to the beginning
of a great experience. With this union, the moment of self-realization or
enlightenment begins.
At this point, the individual dies. I do not mean that the physical death
occurs but I mean the individual awareness or consciousness. It is the death
of the experience of individual name and form.
At this moment, you forget the 'I', the 'you' or the 'they'. The experience, the
experienced and the experiencer are the same and one. Everything is unified.
In short, there is no multiple or dual awareness remaining. There is onlyone,
single awareness.

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Every religious system of the world has its own way of describing this
experience. Some calls it nirvana, others samadhi, self-realization,
enlightenment etc.
If you go through the religious poems and scriptures of many cultures, you
will find many descriptions of sahasrara but you have to read and analyze
them with a different state of consciouness to understand the estoric
symbology and terminology.
When kundalini is ascending through the different chakras, the
consciousness evolves and the awareness experience higher things but still it
is not free from ego.
You cannot transcend ego at the lower stages of awakening. This
transcending of ego starts only when you reach ajna chakra i.e. The Third
eye chakra.
Here the individual awareness starts dying and upto the time till when you
reach sahasrara you become one pointed and unified with the "Supreme
Power".
Only few persons have been able to reach this level of awakening. In Lord
Buddha, Sahasrara was completely active. Also in Swami Vivekanada,
sahasrara was awakened. There are many other examples also.
In a nutshell, the Crown Chakra or sahasrara is the ultimate of a Yogi. When
kundalini is united with sahasrara, the yogic aspirant enjoys supreme
bliss.When Kundalini is taken to this centre; the Yogi attains
thesuperconscious state and the Highest Knowledge.

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Piercing of Chakras
It is a great science to pierce through the Chakras, reach up to the Kundalini
at its base, awaken it and utilize its energies for spiritual development.
Kundalini yoga is far more hazardous than nuclear science. One must
undertake it only under the guidance of an adept and not by reading texts on
the
subject.
Piercing of Chakras is done through meditation. Everybody knows that
human brain is like an energy-house and the mind is its main power current.
Ordinarily movements of the mind are flickering and unsteady. On account
of this turmoil, there cannot be concentration of energy on one point, so
nothing worthwhile can be accomplished so long as the mind remains
disturbed. In the absence of such concentration, precious moments of life are
wasted. When the rays of the Sun are concentrated through a magnifying
glass, fire is produced. In the same way, with the help of accumulated
energy of concentration, a Sadhak can pierce through the six Chakras.
Meditation is the super-science of the mind by which energy scattered in
multifarious channels can be collected and conserved, thus producing an
exceedingly powerful beam of light.
Different texts have prescribed different ways of piercing of Shat-Chakras.
There are some systems, which are traditionally in vogue, in which the
spiritual master (Guru) imparts specialised training to his disciple. Success
can be achieved by all these methods provided this Sadhana is performed
with utmost faith, devotion and confidence under the guidance of a
competent guide. The easiest Sadhana by which these Chakras can be
pierced through and awakened without any hazards is described below.
A Sadhak should sit in padmasan posture in the morning with purified body
and quiet mind. After doing Brahma-sandhya (achman, shikha-bandhan,
pranayam, aghmarshan and nyas), Jap of Gayatri Mantra should be
performed hundred and eight times. Thereafter, Vedmata Gayatri should be
meditated upon in the form of light in trikuti. (If a straight line is drawn from
one ear to another and another line is drawn from the middle of eye-brows to
the middle of brain the meeting point is known as trikuti). Mind should be
settled in the light of trikuti in a way just as a blacksmith puts a piece of iron
in the furnace, takes it out when it becomes red hot, hammers it and prepares
the desired object. On being settled for some-time in the light of Gayatri in
trikuti, the mind becomes illuminated. Then it should be brought in agyachakra. Emanating from the spinal cord, Brahamnadi goes through trikuti to
Sahasrar. The illuminated mind is made to enter into the hollow channel of
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Brahamnadi and taken to agya-chakra. When the mind is settled there it

experiences all the characteristics of the chakra as already described. Mind
of the Sadhak experiences the petals, their letters, elements, seeds, divine
power, instrument, lok, mount, characteristic and colour of that chakra. In
the beginning such experiences are hazy and dim. Slowly some
characteristics of the chakra are visualized clearly, some dimly and some in
a deformed manner. By and by they become more and more clear. Some
times there are differences in the characteristics according to the internal
shape of Chakras.
By concentratedly performing Sadhana of each chakra for a month carefully,
it is stimulated. In meditation its characteristics become clearer and in
matrikas as well as in organs of senses and organs of action there are sudden
and strange vibrations and stimulation and an itching sensation. These are
symptoms of awakening of the Chakra. When the form of a chakra starts
becoming clear the Sadhak should go ahead and try to penetrate another
chakra below the former one according to the aforesaid procedure. It takes
about a months time to awaken each chakra. When the Sadhana becomes
ripe the gate leading from one chakra to another opens. However, the
Sadhak does not find the gate and remains entangled in a labyrinth so long
as there is immaturity in his Sadhana.
When the Sadhak does not find a way out and his Sadhana does not progress
for a long time he should consult his experienced Guru (spiritual teacher)
and proceed according to his advice. In this way gradually, after piercing
through all the six Chakras, the Sadhak reaches Kundalini located at
Mooladhar and gets a glimpse of that volcanic, terrifying serpentine coil of
gigantic energy, Maha-sarpini. The overwhelmingly violent form of
Mahakali is seen here. Several sadhaks tremble violently when they try to
awaken this sleeping tigress.
The dormant Kundalini requires to be hit hard if it is sought to activate it. In
spiritual language this is known as torturing of Kundalini. By such torture,
the excited Kundalini makes a hissing sound and awakens and its first
targets of attack are negative habits, tendencies and desires accumulated
over the past several births. It chews-up these evil sanskars and rides upon
the chest of Sadhaks mind duly armed with all her weapons, destroys his
material illusions and ignorance and transforms him into godliness.

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The process of awakening Kundalini and exciting it has been described in

the ancient scriptures in an extremely symbolic and captivating style. The
battle between Mahisasur and Durga is symbolic of this spiritual secret.
Mahisasur (human mind consisting of five elements), seeking to attain
salvation and inspired by the desire to be killed at the hands of the Goddess,
enters into battle with Chandi (Kundalini) who is sitting silently, and attacks.
The Goddess gets infuriated and counter-attacks and chews up its mount,
Mahish (he-buffalo). This Mahish is nothing else than a bundle of evil
sanskars. Goddess Chandi (Kundalini) destroys the body of Mahishasur (the
material trend of the mind) by her ten arms from all directions and ultimately
Mahishasur merges into Chandis Light. It becomes a part of Maha-Shakti
and attains the supreme goal of life. This furious form of devotional Sadhana
is extremely fierce and hazardous. This is known as the path of battle
(Sadhana Samar).
Whereas several devotees attain Divinity by love and devotion, there are
others who attain it through Sadhana-Samar. Just as a true lover attains God,
a true enemy can also attain Him. Hathyogis and followers of Tantrik
Sadhana fall in the latter category. Awakening of Kundalini is a warrior like
(Veerochit Sadhana) on the basis of which insignificant individual soul can
become great, a living atom transforming itself into the all-pervading
Divinity.
While performing Sadhana of Shat-chakra, the Sadhak should enter into
Brahamnadi and meditate on the Chakras daily. Starting from five minutes
the daily practice can be extended up to thirty minutes. But extending the
duration beyond thirty minutes is harmful, as intense heat is produced by
such meditation, which cannot be tolerated after a certain limit. The mind
should be brought back to the trikuti and meditation should be brought to an
end.
Needless to say, while doing this Sadhana, a Sadhak should observe
Brahmacharya, take only Satvik food once a day, remain in solitude in a
healthy atmosphere and maintain regularity in his daily routine.By piercing
of Shat-Chakras and awakening of Kundalini, a Sadhak can have a glimpse
of the Supreme Divine Energy in brahmarandhra and thus attain several
great Siddhis (occult divine powers).

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The Primordial Power

The origin of Universe is said to be the manifestation of God's
(Omnipresence Consciousness) wish to express you in multiple forms. Being
the original source of the creation, existence and manifestation of Nature and
the universe, this supreme power was named Adi Shakti or (Gayatri). In
other words Adi Shakti, known as Gayatri, is the inspiring and governing
power acting behind the eternal cycle, order and harmony indwelling in the
cosmic system and the laws of nature and the existence and activities of the
world. This eternal presiding power is the cause of all energy and is
subliminally governing the cosmic existence, expansion and activities
towards the ultimate evolution...

Lord Brahma; the supreme creator is described in the scriptures to have

attained the absolute knowledge of the universal creation and the limitless
manifestations of Nature by the dedicated sadhana of Adi Shakti Gayatri.
This supramental knowledge and science constituted the Vedas. This is how
Adi
Shakti became the Vedmata - the mother (origin) of Vedas. The Gayatri
Mantra is regarded to enfold the essence, the seed of Vedas.

The divine powers governing the order of Nature also emanate from the Adi
Shakti. As the same electricity flows in tube light, heater, refrigerator,
cooler, etc and appears active in different forms, similarly, the singular force
of Adi Shakti is reflected in Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva -- as thy powers of
eternal creation, execution and evolution. The other manifestations of thy
impulse (deva Shaktis) too are different expressions of the Adi Shakti. Thus,
Adi Shakti being the absolute source of divine powers is also revered as

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DevaMata. Beatitude of this Devamata endows a devoted sadhaka with

divine virtues and vigor.

As the appearance of Nature and the world emanate from the infinite kernel
of Adi Shakti, the latter is worshiped as VishwaMata -- the mother of the
world. A true devotee of this realization of the Adi Shakti unifies his selfidentity with global unity and lives with the altruist feeling of "vasudhaiva
kutumkam" -- the whole world is like his family to such a generous fellow.

Gayatri Mantra Diksha

The diksha of Gayatri-Mantra Sadhana and the yagyopavita samskara
(thread ceremony) are intermittently linked with dedication to a noble Guru.
The Gayatri mantra is referred as the Guru Mantra. In the times of yore, the
children used to go to the gurukuls for comprehensive education and training
and ideal personality development. The learning of Vedas used to begin
there with the diksha of Gayatri as the Guru Mantra. Today we may find lots
of fake gurus and their variegating, arbitrary guru mantras. But in the ancient
age of the divine Indian Culture, the Gayatri Mantra alone was revered for
diksha.

Dedication to the spiritual guru helps cultivation and development of

Saraddha and vishwasa as the essential elements for the success of Gayatri
Sadhana. The activities associated with the rituals of upasana would be sheer
mechanical acts if devoid of saraddha and vishwasa. Without the inner
support of these two, the observance of the desired disciplines too would
only remain like daydreaming. The sublime linkage between the guru and
the disciple is sustained and strengthened by the saraddha and vishwasa of
the latter. This is what enables the progress and accomplishment of the
sadhana. As the initial practices with bows and arrows gradually helps a
warrior develop into an intrepid archer, the initial sentiments of saraddna

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and vishwasa on the guru also grow and endow the disciple's heart with
immense devotion to divinity and thy love.

In some scriptures, there is a mention of a curse of Maharshi Vashishtha and

Vishwamitra on the (sadhana of) Gayatri Mantra and it is said that only
those who remove this constraint could proceed with Gayatri Sadhana. This
rhetoric description signifies the secret that Gayatri Sadhana should be
endeavored with due disciplines under the protection and adept guidance of
an experienced, spiritually elevated guru. The word Vashishtha means
outstanding sagacity, pious excellence. Those accomplishing the sadhana of
125 lacs of Gayatri Mantra Japa were bestowed with the title of Vashishtha
in the Vedic Age. Liberation from the curse of the great Vedic rishi
Vashishtha implies that the diksha of Gayatri Mantra should be taken from a
guru who is endowed with the qualities and experience of the level of
Vasistha. Vishwamitra means the mitra (friend) of the vishwa (whole
world). The aforesaid rhetoric scriptural saying further implies that the noble
guru for the diksha of Gayatri Mantra should be an altruist, duty-bound
saintly sadhaka who loves all and cares for global welfare.

Diksha blessed by such a siddha guru who possesses the virtues of being
Vashishtha and Vishwamitra, alone can activate the Gayatri Shakti in the
mantra. Gayatri Sadhana endeavored as per his teachings would be perfect
and beatified. Shraddha and vishwasa and devout practices of mantra japa
too would not be complete unless initiated by such a noble guru of Gayatri
Vidya. Having the beatitude of a siddha guru of Gayatri Vidya is like a
propulsion that almost flies the disciple half the path of dedicated sadhana in
the beginning itself. This is what is reflected in the poetic phrase of
emancipation from the curse. There should be no doubt or misinterpretation
of the scriptural mention after the aforesaid decipheration. It is indeed a
perennial truth that no power in the cosmos could curse or restrain the
Omnipotent, Absolute, and Adi Shakti Gayatri.

Gayatri Sadhana initiated by the diksha through noble guru proceeds with
extraordinary spiritual support. Sri Swamy Rama Krishna is the siddha
guru for the diksha of Gayatri Mantra. His life was absolutely devoted to
95

Gayatri Sadhana. So many people were enlightened and blessed by him in

Gayatri Sadhana without any discrimination of sex, caste, culture or social
status.

Daily Gayatri Upasana

Gayatri-Upasana can be performed mentally at any time in any
circumstance. It is doubtlessly beneficial in every condition. Nevertheless,
performing it regularly and religiously has greater significance and spiritual
impact. Any experiment or task if conducted systematically with due
concentration and punctuality assures completion and comprehensive output.
The same is true of devotional practices. The rituals associated with the daily
upasana of Gayatri are devised to help desired mental and emotional
conditioning of the sadhaka. These are simple and could be practised by
every one. It should be noted that these are not mere customs or mechanical
acts. Rather, these are derived from in-depth understanding of the spiritual
nature of human self. For adept performance of daily upasana it is important
to note the implications and sentiments associated with them as highlighted
below.

One is free to choose the sakara or nirakara mode of upasana as per his
mental makeup. One needs to select an appropriate place where he or she
could perform the upasana at the scheduled time every day without any
disturbance. Usually a separate room or a quiet corner of a room in the house
is suitable for this purpose. Or, one may go to a nearby temple, on a bank of
a river or in a garden and adjust the daily practice at such a time and spot
which is relatively silent. The place of worship (pajasthali) should be kept
clean. In sakara upasana, a photo of Gayatri Mata is placed on a small stool
and is worshiped every day by flowers etc. (A special photograph for this
devasthapana are available at Shantikunj, Hardwar or at any local center
of Gayatri Pariwar). Nirakara upasana does not require any photo or idol, as
here, the rising sun or some subtle concept is meditated upon.

Early morning is the best time for regular upasana. One should commence it
only after the routine cleansing of the body. In case of sickness or weather
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constraints, bathing could be replaced by partial cleaning or sponging. The

pancakarma sandhya as described below should be performed through heart
before japa and dhyana in the daily upasana. This could be relaxed in case of
travelling etc. In similar unavoidable conditions, the daily upasana could be
performed only by japa and dhyana.

Daily Upasana with Panca Karma Sandhya: Sit on a cloth or Kush carpet in
a comfortable posture (preferably with cross-folded legs or sukhasana)
with erect spinal cord. Keep a kalasha or small glass full of water and lit a
dipaka and agarbatti in the pajasthali. The rosary (preferably of basil or
sandalwood beads) should also be kept handy. The upasana procedure has
four parts (1) Pancakarma of purification; (2) Deva Avhahan (Invocation);
(3) Japa and Dhyana and (4) Saryardhya-dana. Each could be performed in 2
to 5 minutes except japa and dhyana. The latter should be performed for 15
minutes at least; the sadhaka could choose a longer duration as per his
convenience.

(1) The Pancakarma Sandhya (or the Brahm-Sandhya): The following five
(panca) rituals are meant for the purification of the body and mind and
harmonized activation of the flow of prana:

(I) Pavitrikarana: Hold some water in the left palm and cover it with the
right hand and chant the following mantra. Sprinkle this water on the body
while chanting the terminating segment Punatu of the mantra with a
feeling that this water energized by the spiritual vibrations of the mantra is
purifying your body externally and internally.

The Mantra: Oan Apavitrah Pavitro Va Sarvavstha Gatoapi Va,

Yah Smaret Pundarikakshan Sa Bahyantarah Shucih |
Oan Punatu Pundarikakshah, Punatu Pundarikakshah, Punatu ||

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(II) Acamanah: Hold some water in the right palm; chant the first mantra and
drink the water with the chant of swaha. Repeat the same with the second
and third mantras.
The Mantras: Oan Amratopastaranmasi Swaha |1| Oan Amratapidhanamasi
Swaha | 2| Oan Asatyam Yashah Shrirmayi Shrih Shrayatan Swaha |3|
These three acamanas are performed with an intense feeling of drinking the
Hrin, Srin and Klin currents of Gayatri Shakti; as though an infant is gaining
vital energy by sucking his mothers milk.

(III) Shikha Vandana: Tie the shikha or touch this central spot (above the
suture) on the skull. Close the eyes and chant the following mantra with a
determination that the divine radiance of Gayatri attracted thereby is being
absorbed in the brain and is inspiring righteous thinking and illumination of
mind.
The Mantra: Oan Cidrapini Mahamaye, Divya Tejah Samanvite |
Tiha Devi Shikha Madhye, Tejo Vraddhin Kuruva Me

(IV) Pranayama: Pranayamas are well known breathing exercises for

harmonizing the breathing. A simple pranakarana pranayama is performed
in the pancakarma after enunciating the following mantras. For this, inhale
slowly at a steady pace with a feeling that the prana Shakti of Gayatri
inspissated around is being drawn-in with the breath. Hold the breath for few
seconds to absorb this mahaprana that is sparkling like immense glow of the
rising sun Now exhale the breath at the same pace with a firm belief that
the impurities and vile assimilation from inside are being expelled forever.
Hold the breath out for few seconds with a feeling that the mahaprana is
spreading out in the infinity after destroying the vices and sins inside. Repeat
this cycle three times. The duration of holding the breath is normally
maintained as half that of inhalation/ exhalation in each cycle.
The Mantras:

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Oan Bhah, Oan Bhuvah, Oan Swah, Oan Mahah, Oan Janah, Oan Tapah,
Oan Satyan
Oan Tatsaviturvarenyan Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yonah Pracodayat
||
Oan Apo Jyotih Rasoamratan Brahn Bhur Bhuvah Swah Oan ||
(V) Nyasa: In this process, the fingers of the right hand are successively
soaked in the water hold in the left palm and touched upon (from left to
right) to the mouth, nose, eyes, ears arms and thighs after chanting the
respective mantras. The water remaining in the hands is sprinkled over the
entire body in the end.

The Mantras: Oan Vagme Asyestu | (mouth). Oan Nasorme Pranorastu |

(nose).
Oan Akshnorme Cakshurastu | (eyes). Oan Karnayorme Shrotramastu |
(ears).
Oan Bahvorme Balamastu | (arms). Oan Urvorme Ojoastu | (thighs).
Oan Ariani Meagani Tanustanva Me Sahsantu | (whole body).

The process of purification by the pancakarmas signify that only those

possessing the piety of body and mind are worthy of deva pajana
(worshiping the God). It may be noted that all the pancakarmas could also be
performed
by
chanting
only
the
Gayatri
Mantra.
Deva Pajana begins after the pancakarmas.

(2) Deva Pajana: Prathvi pajana is the first step here.

We are born and brought-up in the lap of mother earth. Our life has no
existence without its shelter and support. This motherland is thus like a
devata to us. Therefore the earth (prathvi), the motherland is worshiped
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before the principal God (ia devata) of the upasana. As a mark of

gratitude, one spoon of water is sacrificed to the earth and it is worshiped by
flower etc and paid regards (pranama) while chanting the following mantra
with the sentiments that we should also be endowed with the endurance,
generosity
and
forbearance
like
the
earth.
The Mantra: Oan Prathvi Twaya Dhrata Loka, Devi Twan Visnuna Dhrata,
Twan Ca Dhareya Mam Devi, Pavitran Kura Casanam
Invocation of Gayatri:
Invocation of the Adi Shakti Gayatri is then prayed through the following
mantra with the intrinsic feel (through the depth of the heart) that the divine
power of Gayatri is descending and consecrating in our inner self.
The Mantra: Oan Ayatu Varade Devi, Tryakshare Brahmvadini,
Gayatri
Chandasan
Mata
Brahmyone
Namostute
|
Oan Shri Gayatryai Namah| Avhahyami, Sthapayami, Pajayami, Dhyayami|
Tato
Namaskaram
Karomi|

Invocation of the Guru: Guru is an angelic reflection of thy-glow that guides

the righteous evolution of the devotee With a prayer for the blessings of
our Guruji Sri Swamy Rama Krishna for the adept performance of the
upasana, we invoke the grace of the guru by the following mantra:

Oan
Gurbrahma,
Gururvishnu,
Gurureva
Parabrahn,
Tasmai

Gurureva
Maheshvaro
|
Shri
Gurave
Namah||

Akhanda
Mandalakaram,
Vyaptam
Yena
Caracaram|
Tatpadam
Darshitam
Yena,
Tasmai
Shri
Guruve
Namah||
Oan Shri Guruve Namah| Avhahyami, Sthapayami, Pajayami, Dhyayami|
Tato
Namaskaram
Karomi
|
The spiritual experiment of Japa and Dhyana begins at this stage.

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(3) Japa and Dhyana: Japa means rhythmic enunciation of a mantra at a

consistent amplitude and frequency. Several types of japas are described in
the ancient science of mantras. The upanshu japa is most suitable for the
daily upasana. The enunciation of this japa is such that the lips and tongue
move but the volume of voice is kept so low that even the people sitting
besides would not be able to hear it. This type of japa avoids disturbing
others and it also supports mental concentration of the sadhaka. Minimum
three rosaries (3 X 108 times) japa of the Gayatri Mantra should be
performed during the daily upasana (at an average frequency, it takes about
6 to 8 minutes for 108 times upanshu japa of the Gayatri Mantra). If
possible, the number of japas could be increased further by some more
rosary counts; usually the experienced sadhakas practice up to eleven rosary
counts at a stretch. The regularity (fixed number and pace) of japa should be
maintained
every
day.
Japa is a kind of cleansing and sharpening process. Continuous friction
makes the stones smooth; the scrubbing of soap on the cloths or the body
removes the dirt from the latter The cyclic pressure and attrition induced
by the mantra-japa also serve this purpose for the cleansing of the mind and
the
inner
sentimental
core.
While performing japa, one should maintain mental concentration and
feeling of uprooting of the vices from the body and mind and subsequent
spiritual refinement of the inner domains with the ascent of sadbuddhi.

Dhyana (meditation) is essential for complete effects of japa. The latter

would be a mere mechanical exercise of the vocal system without dhyana.
In the initial phase of dhyana one needs an object or a concept that is to be
focused or meditated upon. The sadhaka may select a divine symbol or
image of God for this purpose as per his nature and faith. Meditation upon
rising sun is most recommended for the dhyana during Gayatri Upasana.
The devotees of the sakara upasana of Gayatri also often attempt to visualize
her in the bright core of the sun as the divine mother, the Goddess sitting
on snow-white swan. The sublime presence of the Mother Gayatri becomes
intense with the engrossment of sadhakas consciousness. The latter
dedicates his self in the holy mothers lap like an infant, and feels being
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blessed by the nectar of her spiritual milk, which purifies, strengthens and
illuminates his personality from within.

It should be recalled that the mother experienced in the mental image is not a
woman, rather the Goddess, the divine source of all noble virtues, motherly
love, goodwill and beatified powers. This meditation becomes natural and
effective with the increased piety of emotions and depth of faith This
dhyana is supposed be progressing well when all disturbances begin to
disappear and the devotee despite being a normal adult in the physical world
forgets his identity and finds himself as an infant in the course of the
meditation. He gradually begins to feel as though the nectar-milk of the
divine mother is spreading like a spark within him and is burning out all the
assimilated vices, blemishes and infirmities. The glow and heat of this spark
is transforming him into an eminent being. And that his life is being
gradually transmuted from sinful decline to ideal evolution ; from a mananimal to a great human, an angelic personality. With aroused purity, selfconfidence, and all-round eminence, he is getting endowed with divine
virtues and potentials...

The nirakara dhyana involves deep meditation on the rising sun with an
engrossed feeling that the nectar-glow of Gayatri is reaching the sadhaka
along the sunrays and spunning an aura of light around him. This radiation is
slowly penetrating the sadhakas body and energizing all sense-organs and
faculties The insidious incontinence of the ears, nose, eyes, tongue and the
genitals, etc, are evaporating and all the sense-organs are getting refined and
sharpened by this brilliance. This aura is now expanding towards the brain
and refining all the mental and intellectual faculties. The smog of
intemperance, ego, selfishness, fear and varieties of illusions inspissated in
the core of mind is destroyed by this divine radiance and the Gayatri Shakti
indwelling in it is kindling unique spark of awareness, alacrity, self-control,
enlightened thoughts and spirituality.

The sadhaka should continue the dhyana with the inner perception that the
glow of Adi Shakti immanent in this aura is entering the deeper domains of
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the heart the emotional core and slowly eroding the incompleteness, the
fears, and astray search of the self This beatific light is eliminating the
darkness of fears, ignorance and the narrow, selfish perceptions of the self.
The individual self is being absorbed in the divine aura and thus unifying its
identity with thy grace like the self-sacrifice of a moth in the flame, or the
sublimation of an ahuti in the yagyagni The glow of the soul is absorbed
in thy radiance This grand union of the soul with its absolute origin is
generating infinite bliss. With this sublime impulse, the sadhakas heart gets
immersed in the ocean of divine inspirations. This ennobles spiritual
evolution of his aspirations, emotions, inner personality and intrinsic faith.
He realizes his divine nature and adopts the conduct worth thy grace and
ideals.
As the continuation and emotional depth of engrossment in the dhyana
intensifies, the intimacy of the rejuvenation of the devotees soul with the
divine source of meditation becomes more enliven and strong and
effectuates sublime transmutation of the sadhaka with cherubic
illumination.
(4) Suryardhyadana: After completion of japa and dhyana, the water kept in
the kalasha at the pajasthali is slowly poured (in the basil plant) as an
offering in the direction of the sun while chanting the following mantra:

Oan Saryadevo Sahastransho, Tejorashe Jagatpate |

Anukampaya Mam Bhaktya, Grahanardhyan Divakara ||
Oan Saryaya Namah, Adityaya Namah, Bhaskaraya Namah ||
Here the water kept in the kalasha represents our (the sadhakas) small
identity and the sun is a symbol of the limitless Brahn. The process of
suryardhyadana is meant to inspire dedication of our potentials, our deeds
and our life to thy ideals and divine aims. The water offered here is
evaporated and spread in the sky. It is then enshowered in an expanded area
as clouds or dew droplets. The purpose and teaching of suryardhyadana is
that the water (resource) of our talents, assets and potentials should not be
kept confined to the narrow boundaries (of selfish possessions and
pleasures) Rather, it should sublimate and expand for use in altruist aims
of the social and global welfare.
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Essence of Gayatri in All Religions

Hindu: God is the eternal source of life-force; Supreme embodiment of
unalloyed bliss and Almighty destroyer of all worries and vices. Meditate
upon the preeminent radiance of His pious inspiring power that will
enlighten our intellect and motivate it towards the righteous path of
elevation. (Rigveda 3|62|10; Yajurveda 36| 3; Samveda 1462)
Jew: 'O' Jehova (God) Guide me on the path of religion (righteousness);
Show me Thou way which is straight, noble and perfect. (Old TestamentPrayers 5|8)
Shinto: 'O' Lord! Our eyes might see indecent things and vices, but
our hearts (inner minds) should be free from all evils and impurities. Our
ears might hear what is immoral and profane, but our hearts should not
perceive anything unholy or wrong.( Japanese Preaching)
Parsi: That Supreme Master (Ahurmazda - God) is the Supreme King
because of His pure intelligence and truth. Executing altruist deeds in His
name makes us beloved of God.
(Avesta 27|13)

Dao (Taoism): Dao (the Supreme-Self: God) is beyond all perceptions and
thoughts. Righteous conduct as per His disciplines is an ideal
religion.
(Dao Treatise)

Jainism: Revering salutations to all the Arhantas, the Siddhas, the

Acharyas, and the Upadhyays (all of whom are enlightened masters).
Revering salutations to all the saintly beings.
(Invocation Prayer)

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Buddhism: (For ultimate peace and joy) surrender to Buddha - the

enlightened awareness; Surrender to dhamma - the inner righteousness;
Surrender to Sangha - the collective consciousness.
(Diksha Mantra | Trisharanam)
Confucius: Must I behave not what I like others behave not.
(Notable Quotes)
Christianity: 'O' Father! Please do not put us under test; Save us from all
sins and evils. All the infinite power, noble prosperity and greatness is
eternally
Thine.
(New Testament 'Matte' 6|13)

Islam: 'Ya Allah!' We pray to you only and need Thou help alone. Show us
the righteous path - the path of those who are blessed with Thou light and
grace, and not the (wrong) path of those who are unholy and worthy of Thy
punishment.
(Quran Sura: Al-Phatiha)
Sikh: 'Omkar' (God) is one. Thy name is the ultimate Truth. HE is the
creator of Nature, HE is Almighty, absolutely bright and brave. HE could be
known only by the blessings of a noble Guru (enlightened divine
intellect).
(Guru Granth Sahib - Japujee)

Bhahai: 'O' Lord! Refresh and gladden my spirit. Purify my heart. Illumine
my powers. I lay all my affairs in thy hand. Thou art my Guide and my
Refuge. I will no longer be sorrowful and grieved; I will be a happy and
joyful being. 'O' God! I will not longer be full of anxiety, nor will I let
trouble harass me. I will not dwell on the unpleasant things of life. 'O' God!
Thou are more friend to me than I am to myself. I dedicate myself to thee O
Lord.
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(Abdu'l-Baha in 'The secret of

divine civilization')

Gayatri is Spiritual Triveni

Some instances about the importance of Gayatri have been furnished in the
fore-going pages. It is difficult to consolidate and publish all of them.
Ganga, Geeta, Gau (cow) and Gayatri, these four are pillars of Indian
culture. Every person who believes in Hindu religion reveres them like
Mother and feels a special sense of mutual bonding with all others with
similar faith.
Gayatri has been called spiritual Triveni. The confluence of Ganga and
Yamuna creates an invisible, subtle, divine river which is known as
Saraswati and the confluence of these three is known as Triveni. On account
of this Triveni, Prayag is called king of all the Teerths. In the same way
Gayatri is Triveni of the spiritual world. Its first letter ga is suggestive of
Ganga; second letter ya of Yamuna and third letter tri of Triveni. Several
trios viz.
(1) Sat, Chit, Anand,
(2) Satyam (truth), Shivam, Sundaram (beauty)
(3) Sat, Raj, Tam,
(4) Ishwar (God) Jeev (soul) Prakriti (quality),
(5) Rik, Yaju, Sam
(6) Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya
(7) Gun (virtue), Karma (action), Swabhav (nature),
(8) Shaishav (childhood), Yauvan (youth), Budhapa (old age),
(9) Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh,
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(10) Utpatti (creation), Vridhi (growth), Nash (destruction)

(11) Sardi (winter), Garmi (summer) Varsha (rainy season)
(12) Dharma (righteousness), Arth (wealth), Kam (sensual enjoyment),
(13) Akash (space), Patal (nether-most world), Prithvi (earth),
(14) Dev (God), Manushya (man), Asur (demon) etc.

Are interwoven and lie embedded in Gayatri chand. One who observes
deeply by meditation and contemplation, these trinities gets the same
spiritual merit as one gets in the material world by taking a dip in Triveni.
These various trios represent various kinds of problems which the Sadhak is
required to face and by solving which he attains the ultimate goal of selfrealisation.
The three currents of Triveni appear to be vast, deep and daunting. In the
same way, Gayatri Sadhana appears to be very difficult. But just as fear
disappears and tranquilizing cheerfulness is attained by taking a dip in
Triveni, so also by thinking, contemplating and probing deep into various
aspects of Gayatri Sadhana a person attains such spiritual insight which
inspires him to follow righteous path and ultimately leads him to eternal
peace and bliss. Gayatri, undoubtedly, is spiritual Triveni, it is teerathraj
because the philosophy underlying it is easy, simple, and intelligible and it
leads
to
perennial
happiness.
The importance and glory of Gayatri is infinite. Ved, puran, shastras,
history, rishis, saints, house-holders all acknowledge its importance. It has a
marvellous power of changing our outlook towards life. If our perverted
thinking and mental back-ground are set right, our desires, aspirations,
thoughts and sentiments get refined; we can rise higher than even the gods.
Gayatri Sadhana can emancipate us from bondage to hellish perversions, of
envy, hatred, malice, ill will etc, thus manifesting in our lives the Divine
attributes of Satyam, Shivam and Sundram.

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Tripada Gayatri
Gayatri has three phases and so it is called tripada. It is also called tripada
because it is Vedmata, Devmata and Vishwamata. Vedas have originated
from Gayatri mantra and so it is known as Vedmata. It is Devmata because it
helps in manifestation of divine virtues (gun), actions (karma) and nature
(swabhav). It gives inspiration for establishment of universal family
Vasudhaiva kutumbakam and so it is known as Vishwamata. It enjoins to
regard every human being as ones own self. It advocates lofty thinking,
ideal character and polite behaviour. It is known as Guru-mantra which
means that of all the Mantras, it is the best and supreme. Gayatri Mantra was
the first lesson to be taught in the schools in the ancient times and students
were explained that the purpose of education is to attain spiritual wisdom. It
directs cultivation of human dignity and observance of self-imposed rules
and regulations. Education and learning are meaningful only if these factors
are kept in view. The letters of Gayatri mantra are interwoven in such a
manner that by their utterance special vibrations are created and the secret
subtle centres of energy within the Sadhak get activated and awakened,
manifesting their paranormal potencies.

Foundation of New Era

Gayatri is known as Adya Shakti because Brahma who was born from the
Navel lotus of Vishnu was directed to take support of this Maha Mantra for
creation. Brahma worshipped it and performed tap and brought forth all
animate and inanimate creation.
This great power will now be known as the power of a new golden era
because the deadly poisons permeating the atmosphere, environment and
minds and hearts of human-beings can be neutralised only with the help of
collective Sadhana of this Mantra. The new era is also descending in the
form of Pragya (Enlightened Intelligence) movement, or Pragyavtar. The
next era will be known as Pragya Yug (Era of Enligntenment). It can also be
called Satyug.
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What will prevail in the new era, what ideologies will be adopted, have all
been described in detail in Gayatri Geeta, Gayatri-Smriti and Gayatri
Manjari. The sum and substance of this enunciation is that the people of the
world will soon live like one family. There will emerge one unifying
spiritual vision, making the earth a happy home for all the peoples and
nations of the world, united in universal love, understanding and good will.
It will be true unity in diversity Sovereign nation states will become
obsolete. None will be poor or rich. This earth is mother of all. All
humankind will unite together to use its bounties. Glaring economic and
social disparities will be eradicated. Everybody will get according to his
need and will have to work according to his capacity. Everyone will live on
his own self-earned income. Nobody will subsist on ill-begotten money.
None will get an opportunity to give unearned wealth through inheritance
and indulge in riotous merry making.

No country will be allowed to subjugate a neighbouring country to fulfil its

selfish ends. This one world organisation will have a combined judicial
system and there will be one peace keeping force directly under the global
government. Disputes will be settled by Panchayats. It will be the duty of the
global government to check any infringement of universally accepted and
acclaimed laws of harmonious collective living. Immorality, atrocities, blind
faith, evil traditions, foolishness etc. will become things of the past. None
will be required to indulge in litigation to get justice. Women will command
greater respect than men. Family planning will be strictly enforced so that
the world population is stabilised. Universal education and health will be the
responsibility of the state. Old persons will also work in accordance with
their capacity. Everyone will have to adopt the principle of simple living and
high thinking. Nobody will be allowed to usurp the fundamental rights of
anybody else. Culprits will be given exemplary deterrent punishment.
People will earn money for livelihood in a limited time. The rest of the time
will be utilized in self-refinement and in rendering selfless service for the
good of others. Retirement will not mean a permit for idleness. Not only his
family but society as a whole will get benefit of the wisdom and talents of an
old person. Scientific discoveries will be applied more in the field of
spiritual upliftement rather than for increase of physical or material wellbeing. Spiritual super-science will get preference over material science.
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This prediction of the advent of the new golden era is foretold in the
scriptures of the world and has been foreseen by the seer-vision of mystic
masters around the world.

Gayatri and Yagna

Gayatri and Yagna form an inseparable pair. One is said to be the mother
and the other, the father of Bhartiya Dharma. They are inter-dependent.
Gayatri anushthan cannot be considered fully accomplished unless it is
accompanied by Yagna. In old affluent times agnihotra used to be
performed of one-tenth of the quantum of Jap, but now in view of the
prevailing circumstances ahutis are given in one to hundred ratio. Those
lacking in requisite resources fulfil the requirement of Yagna by performing
one-tenth additional Jap.
There is reference in the scriptures to a famous dialogue between Janak and
Yagyavalkya. Janak went on pointing out difficulties in performing yogna
and yagyavalkya, while emphasizing the essentiality of performing Yagna,
suggested alternatives, one after another. Yagyavalkya said if charu and
other articles of Yagna are not available, food grains of daily consumption
can be offered in havan. If food grains are not available one can make do
with herbs and vegetation. If they are also not available, mental Yagna can
be performed by offering meditation and prayers in the symbolic fire of
reverence and devotion. It has thus been emphasized that not only in
anushthan, but even in daily Sadhana, Yagna is essential along with Gayatri
Jap.
In emergency, house-wives used to utter Gayatri Mantra and offer five
morsels of first chapati in the hearth. The daily routine of bali-Vaishya is
nothing but a short form of havan. The purpose of symbolic worship of
agnihotra can also be fulfilled by uttering Gayatri Mantra and offering ghee
and sugar in the fire or lighting a ghrit lamp and burning incense-sticks. The
celebration of Holi is nothing but a form of collective Yagna performed once
in every year. Yagna is an essential part of every auspicious religious
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celebration, whether it is in the form of offering ahutis in sacrificial fire

(Yagna-kunda) or burning candle-sticks, incense sticks or ghrit-lamp.
Our ancient scriptures describe one of the names of God as Yagna-Purush.
In shatpath, Yagna has been described as Vishnu, Yagyovai Vishnu. In the
beginning of Rig-Ved, Yagya has been described as purohit (priest or
religious guide). The importance of the fire of the Yagna has been stressed
in all Vedic literature. In Agne naya supatha raye......... an ardent prayer
is made to Almighty God to lead us on righteous path as contained in the
words dhiyo yonaha prachodayat of Gayatri Mantra.
Yagna is essentially linked with all traditional religious functions. None of
the essential sixteen purificatory rites (Shodash - Sanskar) right from child
birth till death can be celebrated without performance of Yagna. The
ceremony of Yagnopaveet is intrinsically linked with Yagna. It combines the
ideology and philosophy of Gayatri with the performance of Yagna. In
marriage ceremony it is essential for the bride and the groom to perform
Yagna and take seven rounds of the fire of Yagna. Circumambulation of the
sacrificial fire alone is the visible proof of solemnization of a Hindu
marriage. The last rite in the series of sixteen rites is the funeral rite, in
which the dead body is put on funeral pyre, set fire to and kapal-kriya
piercing of the skull is performed with ghee by way of purnahuti.
This ancient tradition of Yagna incorporates the principles of theoretical
knowledge and applied science and contains in it all the elements of
material elements in seed form. It is a sacred process conducive to the
welfare and happiness of the individual as well as the society.
The meaning or purport of the word Yagna is an act or celebration of selfgiving which aims at the highest universal good, an act which is generous,
magnificent, noble and magnanimous. Yagna is a Sanskrit word which has
three meanings, (1) divinity (2) organization and (3) charity. These three
virtues can be said to be triple divine currents of individual and social
transformation. Divinity means refined personality, divine virtues.
Organization implies unity, cooperation team-spirit. Charity implies
generous sharing, devotion to society, and considering the entire universe as
ones own family. All these three tendencies are thus combined in Yagna
and it can be said to be the flaming torch of knowledge. It inspires man to
translate higher sentiments and motives into righteous deeds. Coordination
of knowledge and action creates the ground for making progress. Righteous
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deeds, which is known as tap, and true knowledge, which is known as yog,
are the basis of spiritual progress.
The philosophy underlying Jeevan (life) - Yagna is to make a man great by
adopting the philosophy of self-sacrifice. It has been stated in the Geeta that
a man who eats without giving to others is a thief, he commits sin. A man
should eat the leftover of Yagna Yagyashishta
Shinah
Santo
Muchyante
Sarva
Kilvishaih
Bhunjate Te Twagham Papa Ye Panchntyatmakaranat - Gita 3/31
Devtas (divine beings) attain divinity only by Yagna. This is nothing but
propounding the fact that in individual life man should not be selfish or selfcentred and in his actions and behaviour, he should demonstrate sincere
devotion for the welfare and upliftment of the society. This is a highway
leading to all-round happiness, progress, peace and tranquillity of the
individual as well as society.
There is no other religious medium as powerful as Yagna to educate the
public mind by explaining the subtle implications of sacrifice, generosity
and benevolence for purifying the individual and making the society capable
and competent. According to Rig-ved, the fire of Yagna, although
speechless, acts as purohit (spiritual priest) and inspires people in achieving
all-round progress, happiness and peace. If the philosophy of Yagna is fully
understood and assimilated in practical life circumstances can be created for
the emergence of divinity in man and descent of heaven on the earth. These
ideals have to be lived for changing the present era and building a bright
future.
It is said that Devtas performed Yagna and attained divinity. Emergence of
Brahman element in man is possible only by Yagna. Otherwise, devoid of it,
man is no better than an animal. Performance of Yagna has been said to be
the main function of a Brahman. The essence of Yagna is common good,
universal peace and happiness. The chariot of human life runs smoothly so
long as different parts of the body work in cooperation with each other.
Every thing will be topsy-turvy if selfishness or non-cooperation
predominates in social life. Take, for instance, the example of the cycle of
water. Clouds get water from the sea, earth gets water from the clouds, rivers
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get water from the earth, and sea gets it from the rivers and thus there is
growth of vegetation and greenery everywhere and the thirst of all livingbeings is quenched. If there is any interruption anywhere in this cycle of
unhindered giving or sacrifice this earth will become like a hot iron plate.
Similarly, living-beings thrive on different vegetations which get their
nourishment and diet from urine and faeces, (excrements) of the former.
Living-beings inhale oxygen emitted by the trees and the latter thrive on
carbon-di-oxide exhaled by the former. There is also a similar mutual giveand take between human beings and animals. This is the philosophy of
Yagna, of give and take, around which the entire universe revolves. All
outstanding problems find their solutions when these righteous tendencies
are nurtured and properly followed. Their neglect, on the other hand, is
bound to result in mutual strife, disharmony and destruction. The Geeta
states that prajapati (God) created man and Yagna simultaneously and
directed that human-beings will enjoy peace and happiness if there is this
glad spirit of yagna (give-and-take) in them. This great principle of
promoting universal good is known as Yagniya way of life and agnihotra is
just a symbolic sacred ritual to educate the public mind.
There is one more aspect of Yagna, which relates to environment. It plays an
important role in purifying the atmosphere neutralising which has been
polluted to the extreme by vehicular emissions and gaseous pollutants from
industrial units. The energy produced by Yagna is extremely effective in
killing the germs of several diseases. In ancient times, physical ailments and
mental disorders were successfully controlled by Yagna. We must
rediscover and further develop the science of yagyopathy (treatment through
Yagna) which is equally effective in the healing of physical as well as
mental disorders. The process of fumigation and vaporization by burning
herbal medicines in the sacrificial fire is a subtle, and very effective and
efficacious method of healing. Treatment by yagyopathy is effective in
eccentricity, evil habits, criminal tendencies and similar other mental
disorders with which a large number of human beings are suffering these
days.
Broadly speaking, the main result of performance of Yagna is showering of
parjanya. The gross meaning of parjanya is clouds but its subtle meaning is
Pran or energy. In ancient times whenever there were famines, people used
to perform of specific agnihotras, which resulted in rainfall. In fact, parjanya
is the subtle element of Pran which is created by Yagna and people derive
benefit through the air and the clouds. All creation (animate as well as
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inanimate) gets a special upsurge of energy and vibrancy through the

showering of parjanya, which leads to all-round growth and progress. The
greatest advantage of Yagna is purification of the atmosphere and
environment. It also influences all aspects of the personality of man. His
thinking is regulated by getting proper direction and inspiration and thus a
sound basis for refinement of human tendencies is created. Performance of
Gayatri Yagna at a mass scale plays an important role in creating beneficent
environment.
An individual, society or a nation can prosper only on the basis of
knowledge and science. Knowledge means learning, wisdom, discretion, farsightedness, goodwill, generosity and judiciousness. Science means strength,
efficiency, power and resources, prosperity and capacity to create
abundance. In ancient times, India was rich both in knowledge as well as in
science.
Knowledge, these days, is based on what is actually seen or experienced and
science is based on machinery. This is not only less fruitful and more
laborious but also temporary. All the knowledge which is being amassed by
professors, research scholars and so-called learned persons does, no doubt,
add to our physical knowledge, but it does not help at all in inculcating
spiritual upliftment, benevolent outlook and a spontaneous feeling of selfsacrifice for the sake of public good. Modern knowledge makes people more
and more selfish, self-centred and self-indulgent. Although there have been
marvellous achievements in the field of physical scientific development and
research, it has, at the same time, proved extremely harmful. Production of
food grains and other crops has remarkably increased with the massive use
of chemical fertilizers but the foods so produced contain elements which are
injurious to health. Machinery has, no doubt, increased manifold our
production of goods but can one imagine how much long range damage is
being caused by poisoning the atmosphere due to pollution as a result of
ever-increasing industrialisation? Scientists are very much worried over the
fact that much before the end of the next century expires, all stocks of coal,
fuel, oil, will be exhausted and huge factories, machinery etc. which are
working at present will become idle. Production of energy by atomic devices
is most expensive and it is also bound to adversely affect the environment
even more seriously.
The basis of knowledge and science was quite different in the ancient days.
It was, unlike today, spiritual and not materialistic. It is now scientifically
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accepted that everything which we see by our naked eyes is available in far
more quantity in the subtle or astral world. Rishis in the past realized this
scientific aspect that atoms of all the matter existing in the universe are
available within the mind and body of a man. On this basis they conducted
scientific research through different Sadhanas, and awakened various powers
which lie hidden in human body and mind.
This research in the ancient times used to be conducted on the basis of
Gayatri and Yagna which were regarded as mother and father of spiritual
knowledge. Methodical and systematic worship of Gayatri awakens divine
powers hidden in the body and the mind, helps in spiritual growth, refines
the intellect and develops deep insight to handle the lifes problems calmly,
confidently and wisely. When dissolved Ved-Mantras are chanted and
Yagna is performed by offering samidhas, havi, charu etc. in the sacrificial
fire, radioactive vibrations are created. These powerful waves can be
transmitted to any part of the world or to any particular person or to achieve
some specific object. They can be used for causing rainfall in the form of
parjanya, promoting growth of food-grains and vegetation and also for
enlivening or infusing life and energy in the atmosphere. The power released
through Yagna can also bring about positive charges in ideas, feelings,
circumstances and environment.
Rishis had attached special significance to Yagna because it was helpful not
only in material progress but also in emancipation of the soul and building
peaceful atmosphere by purifying mind and body. Balivaishya Yagna used
to be performed in every house for promoting devoutness, spirituality and
diety in the family life. Bajpeya yagnas were performed for awakening the
dormant spiritual, intellectual and moral consciousness of the masses. For
solving national and international problems, Rajsooya and Ashwamedh
yagnas were performed. Gayatri Yagna is regarded as the quintessence of all
kinds of yagnas.

Of all the Vedas, Rigved is the first to come into existence. In its first
Mantra. Agni mide purohitam, Fire has been described as the first name
of God. Everything which is worth attaining in human life can be achieved
through the power of Agni, which has been described as purohit (religious
priest). God being omni-present has no form but He can be experienced in
the form of divine attributes of Sat, Chit, Anand. There can be no better
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visible symbol of God than fire and it is for this reason that God has been
described as divine fire in the first Mantra of Rig-Ved. He is also called as
Brahma-Tejas, latent light, divine light, holy light etc. The ancient Indian
masters were, therefore, called fire-worshippers by several noted research
scholars. Aryans who lived in Iran and call themselves as Parasis also
worship fire. Fire temples are their places of worship. In India fire is
worshipped in the volcanic miountains in the northern region. In RishiAshrams, fire was kept alive through perpetual fumigation, known as
dhooni. Panchagni used to be installed in all Vedic Karma-kanda and daily
Yagna used to be performed. Thus agnihotra is nothing but symbolic
worship of God in the form of fire.
Why do we regard the sacrificial fire of Yagna as purohit (priest)? It inspires
us to imbibe its five idealistic qualities in our life.
1. Fire has the characteristic of always being hot and bright. We are inspired
to lead bright, radiant, active lives like fire, full of wisdom and brilliance.
2. The flame of fire always goes upwards. One may apply any amount of
pressure but its flame never goes downwards. It teaches us that despite
immense pressures of fear and temptations our flame of wisdom, and
foresight should ever be kept-alight and up-turned.
3. Anything coming in contact with fire becomes fire itself. We should also
have such a quality of excellence in our character, so that any one coming in
our contact may become refined.
4. Fire accumulates nothing. Whatever is offered in the fire is vaporized. It is
scattered throughout in the atmosphere and becomes universal. We should
also not accumulate possessions for our selfish ends but utilize all our
resources and qualities for advancing the good of the people. We should be
generous and lovingly kind.
5. The residue of fire is ashes. Ultimately physical forms of all human beings
are going to be reduced to a handful of ashes. The idea behind applying
(ashes of Yagna) on the forehead is that man should always remember the
inevitability of death and utilize each and every moment of his life in the
best possible manner.
These five teachings are known as panchagnividya which the priest (purohit)
in the form of fire teaches to every human being. A man is truly blessed if he
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imbibes these teachings in his daily life by performing symbolic worship in

the form of Yagna.
The real purpose of Yagna is to imbibe virtues like self-sacrifice, selfrestraint (sanyam), charity, beneficence, generosity, compassion etc. in our
daily life. It inspires us to surrender everything, body, mind, ego and soul to
God. A Sadhak on surrendering himself to God, who has been described as
Yagna-purush in the scriptures, becomes one with Yagna, just as samidhas
on being consumed in the sacrificial fire of Yagna become fire itself. In fact
the real Yagna is to follow the directions and inspirations of our indwelling
divinity and imbibe righteous tendencies. Constant rememberancce of the
Divine, keeping an attitude of detachment and remaining engrossed in
regular sacred studies and devotion amounts to leading a Yagniya life. Such
a person sees the presence of God in everyone, everywhere and becomes
free of evil deeds and sins.
Geeta describes several categories of Yagna, just as Deva-Yagna, AtmaYagna, Brahma-Yagna, Tapa-Yagna, Yoga-Yagna, Swadhyaya-Yagna,
Gyan-Yagna etc. and enunciates that whatever is done for realization of
God or for self-realization is known as Yagna. Agnihotra or performance of
material part of Yagya is a first step which culminates in the ultimate goal of
spiritual Yagya. In the beginning, a Sadhak starts with symbolic idol
worship but after some practice he starts meditating on the formless
Omnipresent Brahma. Yagna is a specific and an inseparable part of Gayatri
Sadhana which purifies a persons thoughts, emotions, sentiments and
actions, to be able to surrender himself at the lotus feet of the Almighty and
become Yagna -maya or one with God. In short, it promotes virtues like
beneficence, mutual cooperation, righteousness, good will, self-restraint,
sacrifice, generosity, etc.

Yagna
The four Vedas signify the philosophy of the eternity and absolute
complementary role of Gayatri and Yagya in the divine creation.
Atharvaveda also deals with sound therapy aspects of Mantras for the
treatment of the ailing human system at the physical, psycological and
spiritual levels. The Samaveda focuses on the musical chanting patterns of
the Mantras and the subtle form of Yagna by defining the latter as the
process of mental oblation on the surface of internal emotions through the
cosmic radiation of the omnipresent subtle energy of sound. The Yajurveda
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contains the knowledge of principles and methods of performing Yagnas as

Spiritual and Scientific experiments for global welfare

References from Scriptures

The Yajurveda contains the knowledge of the principles and methods of

performing Yagnas as part of spiritual and scientific experiments for global
welfare. The SamaVeda focuses on the musical chanting patterns of the
mantras and deals with the subtle form of Yagna by defining the latter as the
process of mental oblation on the surface of emotions....
Ancient scriptures of Hindu philosophy affirm Yagna as one of the twentyfour divine incarnations. Performing Yagna on small scale as homam,
agnihotra or havan is an integral part of every religious ritual and social rite
of auspicious nature.

Bhagwat Purana
The importance of yagya has been described in detail in Srimad Bhagwat
Purana. Several such events have been described in this scripture, which
acquaint us fully with the enormous power of yagna. According to this
Purana, the universe was created with the help of yagna. This phenomenon
has been described as follows.
In an answer to a query, Brahmaji describes the form of yagya as follows
Yadsya
nabhyam

caturhortram
ca
sattam
Bhagwat,
Skandha
2,
Addhyaya
6,
slokas
22,23,24.
Meaning When I was born from the navel of the all-pervading Brahm, I
did not see any articles for oblation except the body of the Purush (the male
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God). Therefore, I created the animals, vegetables, Kusa (a sacred grass), the
sacred land where gods can perform yagya and the time, which is full of
virtues (meaning the time in which the virtues are worshipped). Then I
created all the ingredients of yagya, herbs, milk fats, sweetmeats, metals like
gold, clay (earth), water, four Vedas (Rig, Yaju, Sama and Atharva), four
Brahmans, and such procedures too by which the yagya may be performed.

Brahma Purana
There is description in the Brahma Purana(Purva Bhag,Addhyaya 1, shloka
5,6,7) that in the beginning of theKalpa, a very sacred mahayagya was
performed for one thousand years. The organizer of this mahayagya was
Brahmaji himself accompanied by His wife Ila. The role of Shamitraka was
performed by intelligent and radiant Mrityudev himself.

Skanda Purana
Rishabhdev is considered the incarnation of God. This country has been
named as Bharatvarsha in the memory of his son Bharat. The latter made
this country a sacred land through the performance of mahayagnas.
Wherever the mahayagyas were performed, Tirthas (holy places) were
established. After removing the suffix pra from Prayag, what remains is
the word yag, (which means yagna). This place has become Tirtharaj (the
king of Tirthas) because a large number of yagyas have been performed
there. The Dasasvamedha Ghat (a bathing place on the bank of the river
Ganga) in Kashi (Varanasi) is a proof of the fact that ten major yagyas had
been performed there. This is why so much holiness has been attributed to
this place. It is mentioned in part 4 of Skand Purana that the king of Kashi,
Divodas performed yajan of the Lord Mahayagyeshwar in Kashi city by ten
Ashvamedha yagnas. From that day, that place became famous as
Dasasvamedha Tirtha. Previously, it was known as Rudrasarovar.

Vayu Purana
119

The sages asked reverend Sootaji about the place, time, type etc of the
first mahayagya. Whatever Sootaji said, in an answer to this question, is
described in the second chapter in the first part of Vayu Purana, as follows
The creator in the primordial state (i.e. before the actual creation of this
universe), performed the sacred yagya for thousands of years with an aim to
create this world. In this mahayagya, indeed Tapa (penance) wasYajman and
Brahmaji Himself was Brahma of the yagna. In this long and grand yagy of
great souls, the Nemi (wheel) of Dharma revolved so much that it shattered
and hence that area which was worshipped by the sages and saints, was
named as Naimisaranya.
The fourth sloka in the first chapter in first skandha of Bhagwat says
Naimise ninisiksetre sayah saunkadayah|
Satra swargaya lokaya sahastra samamasat||
Meaning Once upon a time, 88000 sages including Shaunak performed a
10,000 years long mahayagya in the sacred area ofNaimisaranya, with a
desire to achieve Heaven. It is the sacred effect of these yagnas that this area
is supposed to be sacred even today.

The King of Yagnas - Ashwamedh

In ancient times, simple yajoas used to play an important role in inner
refinement and self-purification. The mahayagyas used to be performed to
purify the social life. But, when the need for complete renovation of the
nation (Rashtra) and that of the environment was felt, there was a tradition
of Ashwamedha yagnas at the universal level. Thus, the yagnas have been
classified into three categories; viz, yagna, mahayagna and Ashvamedha
yagna. The magnitude of their results also increases in the same order.The
rewards of Ashvamedha yagna are far more purifying. In the medieval
period, Ashvamedha was thought to be the war for the expansion of the
empire, whereas it used to be a special mahayagna performed for the benefit
of the society and the nation, in the earlier ages.

Scientific Aspects of Yagna

120

There are two basic energy systems in the physical world: Heat and Sound.
In performing Yagna, these two energies, namely, the heat from Yagnas fire
and the sound of the Gayatri and other Mantras, are combined to achieve the
desired physical, psychological and spiritual benefits.
The fumigation of specific substances in the Yagna --- fire is a scientific
method of subtulisation of matter into energy and expanding its potential and
positive effects in the surrounding atmosphere. The electromagnetic waves
generated thereby help in transmitting, at cosmic level, the desired sonic
signals stored in the Mantras, which are chanted during the process of
sacrificing the special materials in the fire.

Types of Yagna
Apart from fire-based scientific experiment (or fire-ritual, as popularly
known), other principal types of yagyas signified in the Vedic culture are:
The Seva Yagna --- altruist service of the society is a noble example of
Yagna.
The Gyan Yagna similarly implies the service of people by enlightening
their lives in the glow of knowledge and education.
The Prana Yagna implies --- the service of saving the lives of people from
suffering and agonies and inspiring liveliness and respect for life in them. A
variety of such Yagnas are described in the Shastras.

Benefits of Yagna
Yagna is also glorified as Yajoaya Sarvak mdhuk meaning, Yagna is the
source of fulfilling all desires. This appears to be true in view of the
positive effects, at physical, mental and spiritual levels, of performing Yagna
and ideal elevation of life by adopting the universal philosophy of Yagna in
action.
Agni Mde Purohitam The first revelation of Rig Veda of is said to have
given knowledge of kindling fire to the first man on the earth. The nowledge
of other powers of Nature is said to have descended afterwards. Fire and
thermal energy are also the key sources of materialistic development. Fire
worship is prevalent in one form or the other in almost every religion or
121

cult. In Hindu religion and Indian culture, the sacrificial fire of Yagna is of
auspicious importance.

Agni Mde Purohitam The first revelation of Rig Veda of is said to have
given knowledge of kindling fire to the first man on the earth. The nowledge
of other powers of Nature is said to have descended afterwards. Fire and
thermal energy are also the key sources of materialistic development. Fire
worship is prevalent in one form or the other in almost every religion or
cult. In Hindu religion and Indian culture, the sacrificial fire of Yagna is of
auspicious importance. Purification of Environment by Yagna
The industrial wastes, rapid urbanization, deforestation, air and water
pollution, disturbances in the ozone layer -formation, radioactive waves etc.,
have destabilized the human, animal and plant life cycles. The ecological
imbalance caused by these acts of civilized men has resulted into
disastrous threat not only to human survival but to the life as a whole on our
planet.
Till recently it was accepted that research into science can furnish answer to
all of mans problems. Today we find increasing number of diseases
including
malfunctioning of body organs due to increasing severity of pollution in the
atmosphere. Ozone layer depletion has been causing ailments like sunburn,
skin
cancer, and cataracts and weakening of the immune system. Viruses are
becomingdrug-resistant and showing consistent growth trends.
Experimental studies show that the incidence of physical ailments, sickness
and
disease are reduced in the houses, where the Yagna (Agnihotra) is regularly
performed because it creates a pure, nutritional and medicinal atmosphere. It
renews the brain cells, revitalizes the skin, purifies blood and prevents
growth
ofpathogenic
organisms.
Agnihotra is basically a healing process. Heal the atmosphere and the
healed
atmosphere will heal you- is the Modus Operandi.
122

Purification of environment through the constituent electrons of the

substances
fumigated in the Yagna is an obvious effect of this process. The observation
of some distinguished scientists is note worthy in this regard.
Dr. Hafkine has mentioned that - mixing ghee and sugar and burning them
creates smoke which kills the germs of certain diseases and secretion takes
place
from some glands relate to the wind-pipe, which fill our heart and mind with
pleasure.
Sugars present in Havishya have great power to purify the atmosphere. It
kills
the germs of T.B., measles, smallpox and cow-pox, remarks Prof. Tilward.
According to Dr. Shirowich, a Russian scientist has remarked that (i) Cows
milkcontains great power of protection from atomic radiation; (ii) Houses
havingcow-dung covered floors enjoy complete protection from atomic
radiation; (iii) Ifcows ghee is put into Yagna fire, its fumes lessen the effect
of atomic radiation toa great extent.

The medicinal fumes emanating from Agnihotra have been observed by

researchers in the field of microbiology to be clearly bacteriolethal in nature.
These eradicate bacteria and other micro-organisms, which are the root
cause of illness and diseases. This must be the reason why the incidence of
physical ailments, sickness and diseases becomes less in the households,
where Agnihotra is regularly performed.

Even without going into detailed chemical bacteriology, it can be stated that
performance of Yagna leads to purification of air.

Therapeutic Benefits of Yagna

123

Amidst the fascinating achievements of the modern era of science and

technologyin improving our comfort levels, stress and pollution have posed
the majorchallenge for man. The world is beginning to realize that the
comforts provided tous by modern science and technology do not ecessarily
always make life easier.
In fact, apart from greater stress and tension, more unknown diseases, untold
anxiety and fear is caused by the highly polluted environment and ecological
imbalance. This has raised alarming call for rethinking and guiding the
common
life style. Yagna appears to be a boon of the ancient Indian sciences for
achievingthis purpose.

In a physical laboratory, it might not be possible to demonstrate the spiritual

effects of Yagna, but the physical and mental effects of Yagnas can be
certainly

tested, and the claims to cure physical and mental diseases through Yagna
can beverified. The Brahmavarchas Shodha Sansthan (a scientific research
centre in Hardwar, India) has taken up research on this aspect of Yagna.
It is to be noted here that the traditional systems of treatment of physical
diseasesemploy medicines which are mostly administered orally. They,
therefore, neither produce effects only after they have been digested and
absorbed into the system.Most part of the medicine taken orally neither is
nor utilized by the digestivesystem. Such medicines may also upset digestion
seriously. The same is more orless true medicines directly injected into the
blood. They produce results quicker, but their adverse side effects are often
more pronounced. White corpuscles of theblood resent intrusion of any
foreign bodies into the blood, and sometimes thereaction of the system to the
sudden, massive and direct intrusion of foreignmatter into the blood through
injection proves most serious, and even fatal. In aYagna, medicines and
herbs are vaporized by offering them into the sacrificialfire, and they enter
the human body in a gaseous form through the nose, lungsand the pores of
the skin. This might be proved to be easiest, least taxing, leastrisky and most
124

effective method of administering a medicine so as to reach everysingle cell

of the body.

The possibilities of curing mental diseases by Yagna are even more alluring.
Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders is still in its infancy in the
modern
systems of treatment. There are neither well established diagnostic aids, nor
any
recognized system of treatment of diseases like Neurosis, Psychosis,
Schizophrenia, Depression, Tension, Melancholia, Mania, Hysteria etc. On
the
other hand, psychosomatic diseases are even more rampant than physical
diseases and they wreck the man more than the latter.
Manifestation of psychosomatic diseases except in extreme and advanced
cases is not so apparent, and that may explain why enough attention has not
been paid to them. The stress and strain of modern life, degradation of social
behavior and fall in moral values all around are contributing to an alarming
increase in psychosomatic diseases. Yagna might offer a solution to this
serious problem as well. The technique of Yagna for the treatment of
physical and mental diseases does not comprise mere vaporization of the
constituents or herbs to be employed, but various Samidhas are offered into
the sacrificial fire of Yagna to create the desired effects. Research on all
these aspects of Yagna is being conducted in the laboratory of rahmvarchas.
It might well lead to the development of a scientifically established in
yagnopathy, which may find not only an honored but a leading place in other
therapies of the world like Allopathy, Homeopathy, Chromopathy,
Naturopathy, etc. Looking to the high
intellectual caliber and
attainments of those who are engaged in research, Yagnopathy may come
into being sooner than expected, and it may rank a unique achievement of
the modern age.

125

The Teachings of Yagna

Why do we regard the sacrificial fire of Yagna as purohit (priest)? It inspires
us to imbibe its five idealistic qualities in our life.
1. Fire has the characteristic of always being hot and bright. We are inspired
to lead bright, radiant, active lives like fire, full of wisdom and brilliance.
2. The flame of fire always goes upwards. One may apply any amount of
pressure but its flame never goes downwards. It teaches us that despite
immense pressures of fear and temptations our flame of wisdom, and
foresight should ever be kept-alight and up-turned.
3. Anything coming in contact with fire becomes fire itself. We should also
have such a quality of excellence in our character, so that any one coming
in our contact may become refined.
4. Fire accumulates nothing. Whatever is offered in the fire is vaporized. It
is scattered throughout in the atmosphere and becomes universal. We
should also not accumulate possessions for our selfish ends but utilize all
our resources and qualities for advancing the good of the people. We
should be generous and lovingly kind.
5. The residue of fire is ashes. Ultimately physical forms of all human
beings are going to be reduced to a handful of ashes. The idea behind
applying (ashes of Yagna) on the forehead is that man should always
remember the inevitability of death and utilize each and every moment of
his life in the best possible manner.
These five teachings are known as panchagnividya which the priest (purohit)
in the form of fire teaches to every human being. A man is truly blessed if he
imbibes these teachings in his daily life by performing symbolic worship in
the form of Yagna.
The real purpose of Yagna is to imbibe virtues like self-sacrifice, selfrestraint (sanyam), charity, beneficence, generosity, compassion etc. in our
daily life. It inspires us to surrender everything, body, mind, ego and soul to
God. A Sadhak on surrendering himself to God, who has been described as
Yagna-purush in the scriptures, becomes one with Yagna, just as samidhas
126

on being consumed in the sacrificial fire of Yagna become fire itself. In fact
the real Yagna is to follow the directions and inspirations of our indwelling
divinity and imbibe righteous tendencies. Constant remembrance of the
Divine, keeping an attitude of detachment and remaining engrossed in
regular sacred studies and devotion amounts to leading a Yagniya life. Such
a person sees the presence of God in everyone, everywhere and becomes
free of evil deeds and sins.

Scientific Aspects of Yagna

There are two basic energy systems in the physical world: Heat and Sound.
In performing Yagna, these two energies, namely, the heat from Yagnas fire
and the sound of the Gayatri and other Mantras, are combined to achieve the
desired physical, psychological and spiritual benefits.
The fumigation of specific substances in the Yagna --- fire is a scientific
method of subtulisation of matter into energy and expanding its potential and
positive effects in the surrounding atmosphere. The electromagnetic waves
generated thereby help in transmitting, at cosmic level, the desired sonic
signals stored in the Mantras, which are chanted during the process of
sacrificing the special materials in the fire.

Fumigating Substances Used in Yagna

In order to get an idea of the various chemical changes which take place, it is
essential to know the various substances offered in Yagna
(A) Wood: Wood has to be dry and free from dust, insects and worms. The
wood is cut into small sticks of varying lengths called Samidhas according
to the size of the altar or Agnikunda.
The principal types of wood used are the following:
I. Sandal-wood (Santalum Album)
II. Agar and Tagar wood (Aquilana Malaccensis and Valeriana Wallchii)
III. Deodar (Cedrys Libani)
IV. Mango (Mangifera Indica)
127

V. Dhak or Palash (Butea Frondosa)

VI. Bilva (Aegle Marmelos)
VII. Pipal (Ficus Religiosa)
VIII. Bargad (Ficus Bengalensis)
IX. Shami (Proposis Spicigera)
X. Gular (Ficus Glomerata)
In addition to wood, various Havishya or Havan samagri are offered in
Yagya
can be divided into the following four groups:
(B) Odoriferous Substances:
These are --- saffron, musk, agar, tagar, chandan, illaychi, jayphal, javitri
and camphor.
(C) Substances with Healthy Constituents:
These are clarified butter (ghee), milk, fruits and cereals like wheat, rice,
barley, til, kangu, munga, chana, arhar, masur or peas.
(D) Sweet Substances:
These usually are --- sugar, dried grapes, honey or chhuhara.
(E) Medicinal Herbs:
These are used as per specific requirement. Some common herbs are
Somalata or Giloya, Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, Nagkesar, Mulhati,Red
Chandan, Baheda, Sonth and Harad.
Now-a-days Havan samagri is readily available in the market consisting of
the following substances in a crude powder form: Saw dust of sandal-wood
and pine wood, the agar and tagar wood chips, kapurkachari, gugal,
nagarmotha, balchhaar or jatamansi,narkachura, sugandhbala, illayachi,
jayphal, cloves and dalchini.

128

Products of Combustion
At the outset, it can be said that the interpretation of process of combustion
in a Yagna in a physical scientific terms is rather difficult due to the
following reasons:
(i) The properties of substances which are used are vastly varying;
(ii) The conditions under which combustion takes place remain unspecified.
The products of combustion depend on the following factors like (a) The nature of substances used and their proportions;
(b) Temperature attained;
(c) Controlled supply of air and
(d) Interaction amongst the various productsformed.

Vapourization of wood:
Besides complete combustion of cellulose material of wood, it is also
subjected to vaporization. This happens due to the way Samidhas are
arranged in the Agnikunda, the conditions of temperature and air supply
which prevail in it.

Steam Volatilization of Odorous Substances:

The temperature attained in the Kunda varies between 250C and 600C,
while in actual flames it can go as high as 1200C to 1300C. The boiling
points of volatile constituents get diffused over in the surrounding
atmosphere. Also when cellulose and other carbohydrates undergo
combustion, steam is formed in copious quantities by the combination of
hydrogen of organic substances with the oxygen. This is how the
substances like thymol, eugenol, pinene, terpinol etc., are carried over in
the surroundings and the aroma of a Yagna can be smelt even at a
considerable distance.

129

In addition to steam, smoke is also given out in copious quantities and

solid particles existing in a highly divided state offer sufficient surface for
mechanical diffusion. Thus smoke also functions as colloidal particles for
diffusion of volatile aromatic substances depending on temperature and
direction of the wind.

Combustion of Fatty Substances:

The fatty substances used in Yagna are mainly ghee and other fatty
substances of vegetable origin. Ghee helps in rapid combustion of cellulose
of wood and keeps the fire alight. All fatty substances used are
combinations of fatty acids, which volatilize easily. The combustion of
glycerol portion gives acetone bodies, pyruvic aldehyde and glyoxal etc.
The hydrocarbons produced in the reactions again undergo slow
combustion and as a result methyl and ethyl alcohols, formaldehyde,
acetaldehyde, formic acid and acetic acids are formed.

Photo-Chemical process:
When all the volatile substances are diffused in the surrounding
atmosphere, these are further subjected to photochemical reactions in the
sunlight. This may be the reason why it has been recommended that
Yagna should be performed in the presence of strong sunlight. These
changes occur in the ultra-violet and other short wavelength regions. The
products of fumigation thus go photochemical decomposition, oxidation
and reduction. To some extent even CO2 is also reduced to formaldehyde
as follows:
CO2
+
H2O
+
112,000
cal.
=
HCHO
=
O2
From environmental angle, reduction of CO2 produced in Yagya as
above and liberation of oxygen cannot be overemphasized.

130

Inverted Pyramid Shaped Agni Kunda

The word pyramid means the fire in the middle. This ancient-word
meaning for pyramid is closely connected with the inexplicable energies
emanating from its central shape. The pyramid shape is widely experienced
to generate and store a special energy field, which possess bacteriostatic
properties. The inverted pyramid shape of the Agni kunda (also called
Havan Kunda) allows controlled generation and multidirectional dissipation
of energy. It acts as a generator ofunusual energy fields and spreads them in
its surrounding atmosphere.
For a daily Agnihotra (Balivaishva) a small copper pot is used. The inverted
pyramid shaped Agnihotra pot receives, generates and decentralizes
electrosphere. It acts as an effective bacteriostatic and antimicrobial reactor.
Copper is universally acknowledged for its excellent conduction of
electricity and heat. The Agnihotra has an obvious link with fire, heat,
electro-magnetic force and because of its inverted pyramid shaped Kunda; it
does have connection with the cosmic energy fields.
The dimensions of the copper pot used for the daily Agnihotras are: 14.5 cm
14.5cm at the top. 5.25cm 5.25 cm at the bottom and 6.5 cm in height
with three steps. For large scale Yagnas, the dimensions are increased
proportionately and the Kundas are also made up of specific combinations of
clays. A part from the pyramid shape, some other special symmetric
geometrical designs are also used according to the kind of energy fields and
the cosmic currents required to be generated by the Yagna. Specific types of
Kundas are recommended for different kinds of Yagnas.

131

Chanting of Mantra
The power of sound vibrations is long since acknowledged in the field of
science. These vibrations can penetrate the energy spheres at the subtle and
cosmic levels. All the alphabets of the Sanskrit language are endowed with
special vibrational powers, which set out harmonious wave patterns when
pronounced.
It is interesting to note that Dr. Howard Steingull, an American Scientist has
established that recitation of Gayatri Mantra produces 110,000 sound waves
per second. In fact recitation of the Gayatri Mantra during the fire-worship
(Yagna) acts supplementary. The patterns of chanting of Mantras are so
designed that they latently contain the essence of the music or the quite
essential sound of the torrent of life sustaining energies emanating from the
cosmic energy centre of the corresponding Mantras. (The cosmic energy
centre a deity associated with the Gayatri Mantra is Sun). Uttering of these
Mantras produces vibrations which are soothing to human mind, all plant
and animal life. These vibrations also help in spreading specific energy
waves in the surrounding atmosphere as the oblations are offered.

Benefits of Yagna
Yagya is also glorified as Yajoaya Sarvakmdhuk meaning, Yagna is
the source of fulfilling all desires. This appears to be true in view of the
positive effects, at physical, mental and spiritual levels, of performing Yagna
and ideal elevation of life by adopting the universal philosophy of Yagna in
action.
Agni Mde Purohitam The first revelation of Rig Veda of is said to have
given knowledge of kindling fire to the first man on the earth. The
132

knowledge of other powers of Nature is said to have descended afterwards.

Fire and thermal energy are also the key sources of materialistic
development. Fire worship is prevalent in one form or the other in almost
every religion or cult. In Hindu religion and Indian culture, the sacrificial
fire of Yagna is of auspicious importance.

Purification of Environment by Yagna

The industrial wastes, rapid urbanization, deforestation, air and water
pollution, disturbances in the ozone layer - formation, radioactive waves
etc., have destabilized the human, animal and plant life cycles. The
ecological imbalance caused by these acts of civilized men has resulted
into disastrous threat not only to human survival but to the life as a whole on
our planet.

Till recently it was accepted that research into science can furnish answer to
all of mans problems. Today we find increasing number of diseases
including malfunctioning of body organs due to increasing severity of
pollution in the atmosphere. Ozone layer depletion has been causing
ailments like sunburn, skincancer, and cataracts and weakening of the
immune system. Viruses are becoming drug-resistant and showing consistent
growth trends.

Experimental studies show that the incidence of physical ailments, sickness

and disease are reduced in the houses, where the Yagya (Agnihotra) is
regularlyperformed because it creates a pure, nutritional and medicinal
atmosphere.
It renews the brain cells, revitalizes the skin, purifies blood and prevents
growth of pathogenic organisms.

133

Agnihotra is basically a healing process. Heal the atmosphere and the

healed atmosphere will heal you- is the Modus Operandi.
Purification of environment through the constituent electrons of the
substances fumigated in the Yagna is an obvious effect of this process. The
observation of some distinguished scientists is note worthy in this regard.
Dr. Hafkine has mentioned that - mixing ghee and sugar and burning them
creates smoke which kills the germs of certain diseases and secretion takes
placefrom some glands relate to the wind-pipe, which fill our heart and mind
withpleasure. Sugars present in Havishya have great power to purify the
atmosphere. It killsthe germs of T.B., measles, smallpox and cow-pox,
remarks Prof. Tilward.According to Dr. Shirowich, a Russian scientist has
remarked that (i) Cows milkcontains great power of protection from atomic
radiation; (ii) Houses havingcow-dung covered floors enjoy complete
protection from atomic radiation; (iii) Ifcows ghee is put into Yagna fire, its
fumes lessen the effect of atomic radiation toa great extent.
The medicinal fumes emanating from Agnihotra have been observed by
researchers in the field of microbiology to be clearly bacteriolethal in nature.
These eradicate bacteria and other micro-organisms, which are the root
cause of illness and diseases. This must be the reason why the incidence of
physical ailments, sickness and diseases becomes less in the households,
where Agnihotra is regularly performed.
Even without going into detailed chemical bacteriology, it can be stated that
performance of Yagna leads to purification of air.

Yagna Leads to Purification of Air

Agnihotra is basically a healing process. 'Heal the atmosphere and the healed
atmosphere will heal you'- is the Modus Operandi. Purification of
environment through the constituent electrons of the substances fumigated in

134

the Yagya is an obvious effect of this process. The observation of some

distinguished scientists is note worthy in this regard.

Removal of Foul Odors

Removal of Bacteria
Removal of insects
Role of CO2 generated in Yagya
Effects on Plants and Vegetation
Results of Some Recent Experiments
Minerals in the Ash (Bhasm) of Yagya
Enshowers Sublime Streams of Parjanya

Removal of Foul Odors

Under steam volatilization, the various volatile oils get diffused in the
surrounding atmosphere along with steam and smoke. Since these oils have
distinct good smell, the foul odors are automatically replaced. This aroma
can
be
experienced easily in the surroundings when Yagna is performed due to
diffusion of substances like thymol, eugenol, pine, terpinol and oils of
sandal-wood, camphor and clove.

Removal of Bacteria
The partial oxidation of hydrocarbons and decomposition of complex
organic substances produce formal aldehyde which is a powerful antiseptic.
It is also interesting to note that germicidal action of formaldehyde is only
effective in the presence of water vapor which is also
produced in large quantities in Yagna. The use of formaldehyde spray for
disinfecting of walls, ceiling etc., is common and such a spray is
automatically produced when Yagna is performed.

135

The oxidation of hydrocarbons also produces formic acid and acetic acid
both of which are good disinfectants. Use of formic acid for preservation of
fruits and that of acetic acid in preserving vinegar is a common practice.
The antiseptic and antibiotic effects of fumes of Yagna have also been
examined by conducting suitable experiments on rabbits and mice and it has
been established that fumes emitted in Yagna are powerful antibiotic.
Agnihotra ash purifies and cleanses the water making it fit for drinking.

Removal of insects
There are non-bacterial parasites like flies, ringworm, dice, and fleas etc.,
which are immune to bactericides, which are also harmful to other living
beings.
Such insects which are generally immune to ordinary reagents. However
they either get killed or are driven away, when they come in contact with the
fumes of volatile oils like camphor diffused in the environment.

Effects on Plants and Vegetation

The disinfection of air is not only useful to animal life but also helps plants
life
though the bacteria responsible for diseases in both may be different. The
aromatic substances during Yagna get diffused in the air and offer protection
to
plant life against harmful organisms. This ensures healthy plant growth.
Agnihotras atmosphere and ash can be used as adjutants in the Natural
farming methods - also known as the Agnihotra farming methods. It is a
holistic concept of growing plants in healthy atmosphere and maintaining
ecological balance by performing Agnihotra (Yagna) in the middle of the
farm

136

and using the Yagna - ash as a fertilizer. It is not only safe and productive
but also holistic in its approach towards environment.

Role of CO2 generated in Yagna

Consignment of the wood and other organic maters to flames has been
always controversial because of generation of CO and CO 2 and increase in
consequent green house effect. It had been argued that performance of
Yagna also produces CO and CO2. It should be noted here that the way in
which the Samidhas and Havishya are burnt in Yagya is a process of slow
combustion at higher temperature. While the burning of coal in factories or
in the household fire involves rapid combustion. Where oxygen is sucked in
large quantities and enormous CO2 is emitted. In the slow combustion
taking place in the process of Yagna, small quantity of O2 is utilized meager
CO2 is emitted that poses no threat to the environment. In fact whatever
CO2 is generated it is readily absorbed by the surrounding vegetation and
CO2 cycle is strengthened
.
The other important aspect is the fact that CO2 produced in Yagna is not
always free CO2 but it remains mixed with other aromatic oils and antiseptic
products.It therefore, acts as a vehicle in transporting such products to
distant surroundings.

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The use of CO2 as a cerebral stimulant to assist the patients suffering from
lack of ventilation is common in medical world. Its use to control and cure
many mental disorders is also known to medical science. Small amounts of
CO2 inhaled by the persons performing Yagna acts as a stimulant and more
and more aromatic fumes are inhaled which help in curing mental disorders.
Particularly effective results with respect to the elimination or reduction in
radiation were achieved through Yagnas fire and ash. These observations
are made by Dr. L. Maela Anatoninhowska of Poland after using P.S.I.
techniques.

Results of Some Recent Experiments

A group of scientists led by Dr. Manoj Garg, Director, Environmental and
Technical Consultants and the Uttar Pradesh pollution control board
conducted
Experiments during the Ashwamedha Yagna at Gorakhpur, U.P. These
Experiments were set up at about 20 meters east from the Yagyashala. The
Samples of 100 ml each of water and air collected from the surroundings
were
Analyzed using high volume envirotech APM-45 and other sensitive
instruments.

Minerals in the Ash (Bhasm) of Yagna

Phosphorous 4076 mg per kg. Potassium 3407 mg per kg. Calcium 7822 mg
per kg.Magnesium 6424 mg per kg. Nitrogen 32 mg per kg. Quispar 2%
W/W
these results clearly support the claims made about the role of Yagna in
control of air pollution. The Deputy Director, Agriculture had submitted a
technical report based on such results, recommending the use of Yagnas ash
as an effective fertilizer.Comparable results were also obtained by the
scientific experiments conducted in about 31 large scale Yagnas organized
by Shantikunj, Hardwar in India and abroad during 1993-2008.

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Yagna Enshowers Sublime Streams of Parjanya

The effects of yagya are not confined to the removal of atmospheric
pollution and medicinal purification. It is only the gross facet. Ies sublime
effects are more intensive and amazing prominent among these is the
parjanya.
Parjanya implies sublime showers of streams of vital energy and spiritual
strength from the cosmic layers (higher space). As the natural fertilizers add
to the potency of soil, the unique confluence of mantra-akti, thermal force
and sublimated herbal energy in yagya also elevates the vital energy in the
atmosphere while purifying the air. This pra is dissolved in the air. We
inhale it with oxygen by inner determination during the deep breathing yogaexercises of pryma. The flow of fresh air in the morning is found be rich
in prna. The larger the scale of yagnas and longer their duration, the greater
would be these sublime and gross effects.

The parjanya generated by yagna augments the level of prna in the air. This
effect is dense around the yagyal and is also pervaded in the wider space
and continues to expand with the flow of air with the process of yagya. If we
pour some oil drops in a pot containing water, soon the oil would spread on
the entire surface of water. In a similar way, the energy of yagya expands all
around in the open space. Its pra is also dissolved in the rain enshowered
through the energized space and thus gets absorbed in the soil and the crops
and vegetation. The soil irrigated by it is found to be more fertile and the
grains, fruits, vegetables grown there are tasty and have higher nutritious
potency. The milk of the cows, which graze the grass grown on such land is
also of excellent quality. Drinking the milk and eating the fruits, vegetables
energized by yagna increases our stamina, resistance against infections and
diseases, our vital power, courage and mental trenchancy.

In fact the cosmic flow of praa is omnipresent in the subliminal realms of

Nature. This is what enables all activities, movements and evolution.
Because of its presence, all creatures are called pr. This is the source of
our vital strength. If it were present in substantial amount in the body, a
visible lean and skinny fellow would also be very strong and healthy. Its
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elevated levels are expressed in mental radiance, intellectual trenchancy and

talents. Its alleviation on the contrary, would turn a chubby, fat, visibly
healthy chap rather weak, lethargic and dull. Reduction of this subtle energy
in the plants and trees would diminish the shining beauty of flowers, potency
and nutritious power of the fruits, vegetables and grains. Decreased levels of
pra in the air, despite substantial amount of oxygen would lessen its
vitality. Even deep breathing of this otherwise fresh air would not have
desired healthy effects. People living at such places are found to lack vital
strength, resistance and mental trenchancy. The parjanya educed by yagya
compensates for this deficiency.

The parjanya of yagya energizes the surrounding atmosphere with intense

flow of cosmic pra. The holy Gita mentions of this as the rain of
parjanya generated by yagya, which is enshowered from the sublime
domains in cosmic expansion and which sustains the life and vigor of all
living beings and induces new zeal and delight in every dimension.

Results of Research in Scientific laboratories

In his study, Dr. Selvamurthy has observed neurophysiological effects of the
Mantras of a special kind of Agnihotra (described in the next section) which
is
performed at the time of sunset. In this experimental study, 8 healthy men
were
chosen as subjects. They use to report at 4 p.m. on two consecutive days.
First day for control recording when rituals of Agnihotra were performed but
instead of the prescribed Mantras, some irrelevant syllables were uttered at
specific
time
periods. Next day evening the Agnihotra used to be performed with proper
Mantras. Recording of physiological parameters viz. Heart rate, ECG, EEG,
GSR, blood pressure were made on both days.

The results showed that while the mind (brain waves) remained unaltered
before Agnihotra, significant changes occurred after the proper Agnihotra.
These included --- (a) G.S.R. remained significantly higher due to proper
Agnihotra; (b)ECG showed DC shift in the base line; (c) EEG showed alpha
enhancement and delta suppression for more than 15 minutes.
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In recent years, the science of medicine has begun to recognize the role of
psychology in prevention and cure of malady. As the atmosphere, prana and
mind are inter linked, the individuals automatically experience relaxation,
peace, unburdening of the mind, loss of worries and stress in the Yagya
atmosphere.The increase in the level of Prana (vital energy) in the
atmosphere when a Yagya is performed --- was also recorded with the help
of Kirlian photographs of human hands before and after Yagya in the
experiments conducted by Dr. Matthias Ferbinger of Germany.

The atmosphere surrounding the place where a Yagya is being performed

and the ash produced in the Kunda has been found useful in healing nervous
system disorders, asthma, heart diseases, lung infections, a wide variety of
skin diseases
and the diseases of the eyes and ears. Analysis of ash has indicated that it
contains certain ingredients which soothe, pacify and tranquillize the mind.

Some Case Studies

A) Drugs and Alcoholic Addiction:
An officer of 25 years age, who has been a poly-drug abuser in the past was
Selected for the study by Lt. Col. G.R. Golecha, a senior advisor in the
psychiatry
Division of the Indian army. The patient was addicted to heroin for the last 2
years.
He had undergone some de-addiction courses twice in past with no benefit
and
Had become resistant to such methods. He was then introduced toAgnihotra.
A rating scale was developed by Dr. Golecha to roughly quantify and
compare
the improvement. The practice of Agnihotra resulted in improving his
Psychology to abstain from smack and significant decrease of his urge for it
Within few weeks.
Conclusion: Agnihotra helps drug addicts to get over their craving for drugs
Because Agnihotra removes negative stereotype thoughts and motivates for
Positive approach by love and compassion.
All the psycho therapeutic advances have failed to control a habitual addict.
Agnihotra is a new hope in this field.

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(B) Diabetes and Agnihotra:

Case-Report
Name of patient: Pandurang M. Patil Age: 72 yrs.
Address: Sai Prabha, Mangvir Pakhadi
Post-Tal-Alibaug, Dist - Raigad (M.S.)
Case: One year old diabetic.
Before starting Agnihotra --- Report on 6-05-1993
1) Fasting:
Blood Sugar: 285 mg/dt (Normal 70-110)
Urine Sugar: Present ++++

The Integrated Science of Yagna

2) Post Lunch (2 hrs. after lunch):
Blood Sugar: 530 mg/dt (Normal upto 120)
Urine Sugar: Present ++++
After performing daily Agnihotra --- Report on 24-07-93
1) Fasting:
Blood Sugar: 95 mg/dt (Normal 70-110)
Urine Sugar: Absent
2) Post Lunch
Blood Sugar: 120 mg/dt (Normal upto 120)
Urine Sugar: Absent
The above case report result has been furnished by medicare pathology
laboratory.2
Conclusion: The above cases suggest that daily Agnihotra will be useful in
Treating a diabetic patient of any age, at any level within 3 to 6 months.
2Address, as reported in [5] is -- R 33 Swapnamurti, Alibaug, and Raigad.
Case was
Referred by a well known doctor -- Dr., Mrs.Morkhadker (MD).
(C) Bhopal Gas Tragedy and Agnihotra:
The incidence occurred on the deadly night of December 3, 1984, when the
Poisonous MIC gas leaked from Union Carbide. Hundreds of people died
and
thousands were hospitalised. There were, however, two families - Shri.
Sohan
Lal S Khushwaha and Shri. M.L. Rathore, which lived in the worst affected
area,
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one mile away from the plant came out unscathed as they were regularly
Performing Agnihotra (Havan). In these families, noone died. Nobody was
Even hospitalized despite of being present in the area worst hit by the toxic
gas.
This observation proves that Agnihotra is a powerful antidote to pollution.
(cf.
News Paper The Hindi of 4-5-85; news item under the heading Vedic
Way to

The Yagnopathy Lab

The Brahmavarchas research centre was established by Pt. Shriram Sharma
Acharya in 1979. It is situated at Saptsarovar road about 6 kilometers away
from the Hardwar station towards Rishikesh in India. This centre is actively
working for the integration of the modern and ancient sciences. Innovative
scientific research is being carried out in the science of spirituality. A part
from the dedicated team of scientists, doctors and engineers, other scholars
of high calibre and well equipped laboratories for relevant research in
different scientific disciplines including neurology, biochemistry,
haematology, phytochemistry and sound therapy etc. are present. Other
features of attraction over here are the botanical garden of about 450 herbs
which include some rare species of Himalayan herbs and Yagnopathy lab.

The Yagnopathy laboratory has a Havan Kunda placed in a gas chamber. A

gas analysis wing for the collection and analysis of the fumes and vapors of
Yagya is at work. The efficacy of various ingredients of the Havishya and
the Samidhas are assessed in the phytochemistry lab, which is well equipped
for
analytical
purposes
with
gas
liquid
chromatograph.
Blood samples are kept in the glass chamber, when it is full of fumes and
vapors of the daily Yagya (Havan) and the changes in the blood
biochemistry and haematological characters are assesed for these samples.
A large number of experiments are carried out on healthy and diseased
persons,living on the campus for specific periods. The subjects include the
Sadhakas, as well as non Sadhakas of all age groups, men and women from
all walks of life irrespective of their social or religious background. During
such experiments, the subject to sits in the glass chamber and inhales the
fumes of Yagya for specificperiod. A thorough analysis of their body and
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mind is made before and after performing this experiment.Haematological

parameters like Hb, TRBC, Platelets, RBC fragility etc.,biochemical changes
like those in the levels of blood urea, sugar, cholesterol,certinine, SGOT,
SGPT etc; are estimated. The immunological changes like the antibody
levels and innate immunity towards various pathogenic offending organisms,
is also assessed.

Various hormones like cortisol, thyroxine, ACTH; androgens etc. are

assessed in the endocrinology lab. The EEG, EMG and ECG recordings are
carried out in the neuro-physiology labs. The psychometry lab assesses the
aptitude, learning potential, memory, the intelligent quotient, emotional
quotient and the overall personality makeup of the subjects. The case is
followed on regularly after treatment with Yagna for a week, or a month.
The technical details and results of experimental research will be published
subsequently in the relevant scientific journals for therapeutic use of
different herbs by means of Yagna and pursue research on herbal medicine
to save way for other scientific applications of Yagna.
The general implication of the results obtained so far is that performing
Yagya significantly enhances the vitality and resistance against adverse
matero-biological changes and the invasion of otherwise lethal viruses and
bacteria. Mental peace, emotional stability and creative development of the
mind are other fruitful observations of research on the psychological fronts.
The experimental studies in this lab would also be extended to animals, birds
and plants to see how the energy released by Yagna affects the animal and
vegetable kingdoms and the environment as a whole.

The Teachings & Philosophy of yagna

Yagna comprises of three elements:
Worship of Gods - Appreciating noble qualities
Togetherness - Unity
Charity - Welfare/Donation
The real purpose of Yagna is to imbibe virtues like self-sacrifice, selfrestraint (sanyam), charity, beneficence, generosity, compassion etc. in our
daily life. It
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inspires us to surrender everything, body, mind, ego and soul to God. A

Sadhak on surrendering himself to God, who has been described as Yagnapurush in the scriptures, becomes one with Yagna, just as samidhas on being
consumed in the sacrificial fire of Yagna become fire itself.
The real Yagna is to follow the directions and inspirations of our indwelling
divinity and imbibe righteous tendencies. Constant remembrance of the
Divine, keeping an attitude of detachment and remaining engrossed in
regular sacred studies and devotion amounts to leading a Yagniya life.
Inspiration from the sacrificial fire:

Vedic References for Yagna

The four Vedas signify the philosophy of the eternity and absolute
complementary role of Gayatri and Yagna in the divine creation.
Atharvaveda deals with sound therapy aspects of Mantras for the treatment
of the ailing human system at the physical, psycological and spiritual levels.
The Samaveda focuses on the musical chanting patterns of the Mantras and
the subtle form of Yagna by defining the latter as the process of mental
oblation on the surface of internal emotions through the cosmic radiation of
the omnipresent subtle energy of sound.
The Yajurveda contains the knowledge of principles and methods of
performing Yagnas as Spiritual and Scientific experiments for global
welfare.
Performing Yagna on small scale as homam, agnihotra or havan is an
integral part of every religious ritual and social rite of auspicious nature.

Scientific Aspects of Yagna

There are two basic energy systems in the physical world: Heat and Sound.
In performing Yagna, these two energies, namely, the heat from Yagna's fire
and the sound of the Gayatri and other Mantras, are combined to achieve the
desired physical, psychological and spiritual benefits.
The fumigation of specific substances in the Yagna --- fire is a scientific
method of subtulisation of matter into energy and expanding its potential and
positive effects in the surrounding atmosphere. The electromagnetic waves
generated thereby help in transmitting, at cosmic level, the desired sonic
signals 'stored' in the Mantras, which are chanted during the process of
sacrificing the special
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Therapeutic Benefits of Yagna

Yagna is the source of fulfilling all desires. This appears to be true in view
of the positive effects, at physical, mental and spiritual levels, of performing
Yagna and ideal elevation of life by adopting the universal philosophy of
Yagna in action.In a physical laboratory, it might not be possible to
demonstrate the spiritual effects of Yagna, but the physical and mental
effects of Yagnas can be certainly tested, and the claims to cure physical and
mental diseases through Yagna can be verified.

Amidst the fascinating achievements of the modern era of science and

technology in improving our comfort levels, stress and pollution have posed
the major challenge for man. The world is beginning to realize that the
comforts provided to us by modern science and technology do not
necessarily always make life easier.
In fact, apart from greater stress and tension, more unknown diseases, untold
anxiety and fear is caused by the highly polluted environment and ecological
imbalance. This has raised alarming call for rethinking and guiding the
common life style. Yagna appears to be a boon of the ancient Indian
sciences for achieving this purpose.
In a physical laboratory, it might not be possible to demonstrate the spiritual
effects of Yagna, but the physical and mental effects of Yagnas can be
certainly tested, and the claims to cure physical and mental diseases through
Yagna can be verified. The Brahmavarchas Shodha Sansthan (a scientific
research centre in Hardwar, India) has taken up research on this aspect of
Yagna.
Sri Swamy Rama Krishna has taken up research on this aspect of Yagna.
It is to be noted here that the traditional systems of treatment of physical
diseases employ medicines which are mostly administered orally. They,
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therefore, produce effects only after they have been digested and absorbed
into the system.
Most part of the medicine taken orally neither is nor utilized by the digestive
system. Such medicines may also upset digestion seriously. The same is
more or less true medicines directly injected into the blood. They produce
results quicker, but their adverse side effects are often more pronounced.
White corpuscles of the blood resent intrusion of any foreign bodies into the
blood, and sometimes the reaction of the system to the sudden, massive and
direct intrusion of foreign matter into the blood through injection proves
most serious, and even fatal. In a Yagna, medicines and herbs are vaporized
by offering them into the sacrificial fire, and they enter the human body in a
gaseous form through the nose, lungs and the pores of the skin. This might
be proved to be easiest, least taxing, least risky and most effective method of
administering a medicine so as to reach every single cell of the body.

The possibilities of curing mental diseases by Yagna are even more alluring.
Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders is still in its infancy in the
modern systems of treatment. There are neither well established diagnostic
aids, nor any recognized system of treatment of diseases like Neurosis,
Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Depression, Tension, Melancholia, Mania,
Hysteria etc. On the other hand, psychosomatic diseases are even more
rampant than physical diseases and they wreck the man more than the latter.

Manifestation of psychosomatic diseases except in extreme and advanced

cases is not so apparent, and that may explain why enough attention has not
been paid to them. The stress and strain of modern life, degradation of social
behavior and fall in moral values all around are contributing to an alarming
increase in psychosomatic diseases. Yagna might offer a solution to this
serious roblem as well. The technique of Yagna for the treatment of
physical and mental diseases does not comprise mere vaporization of the
constituents or herbs to be employed, but various Samidhas are offered into
the sacrificial fire of Yagna to create the
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desired effects. Research on all these aspects of Yagna is being conducted in

the laboratory of Brahmvarchas. It might well lead to the development of a
scientifically established in yagnopathy, which may find not only an honored
but a leading place in other therapies of the world like Allopathy,
Homeopathy, Chromopathy, Naturopathy, etc. Looking to the high
intellectual caliber and
attainments of those who are engaged in research, Yagnopathy may come
into being sooner than expected, and it may rank a unique achievement of
the modern age.
WRITTEN BY

SRI SWAMY RAMA KRISHNA

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